GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY
September 2014
www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Special Section WLIB/WBLS
Circle of Sisters Freedom Summer Spotlight C.T. Vivian David Banks Soars with the Eagle Academy
Kim McLain
BUILDING ON A SOLID FOUNDATION
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We Chose CUNY! NT STUDE
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More Fulbright Faculty and Student Award Winners Than Ever
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ht g i r b l u F lar SchoPerry Linda College
A record 22 City University of New York students, plus 14 faculty members, received highly esteemed Fulbright Program grants this past year for research and teaching abroad. Fulbright winners share their knowledge, skills and cultural perspectives and return home enriched for further study, service and advancement. — James B. Milliken, Chancellor
York
cuny.edu/awardwinners
NAACP NEW JERSEY STATE CONFERENCE ANNUAL CONVENTION Thursday, October 9th – 12th, 2014 Parsippany Hilton, Parsippany, NJ
"All In For Justice & Equality"
For more information please contact info@njscconvention.org or visit us at www.njscconvention.org
Richard T. Smith, President
September 2014
Photo: Brian Branch Price
31
KIM McLAIN: BUILDING ON A SOLID FOUNDATION
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Photo: Bruce Moore
CONTENTS
DAVID BANKS: BOYS SOAR AT EAGLE ACADEMIES
SPECIAL SECTION: Circle of Sisters ............................................37–48 SECTIONS MONEY ........................................21
Features
EDUCATION ..................................28
Men’s Day at FBC Crown Heights .....................18
HEALTH ........................................59
Think Before You Use That USB ........................24
CULTURE ...................................... 65
Higher Ground ................................................25
&
also inside
Publisher’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Selah! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
4
The Positive Community September 2014
Meet Rutgers’ Chancellor Cantor .....................28 NJ Youth Shine at ACT-SO ................................52 C.T. Vivian: Still Working for Freedom ...............54 Wayside Baptist Graduation ............................57 Helping Cancer Patients Look and Feel Better ....59 Dangers of Over-Fortified Food .......................62 Rev. & Mrs. Forbes Celebrate 50th Anniversary ...65 Trinbago Express Throws Appreciation Party ....66 McDonald’s Owners Give Back ........................68 Liberty Gospel Night at MSG ...........................70 Teens, Tweens & Technology.............................73 www.thepositivecommunity.com
We have a Community Office Close to You! Through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, we can help you choose the coverage that’s right for you. Stop by one of these locations, or call 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547). The next Open Enrollment for the Marketplace is from November 15, 2014 – February 15, 2015. Apply for enrollment in New York State’s Child Health Plus and Medicaid programs throughout the year!
Bronx 815 East Tremont Avenue Bronx, NY 10460 (718) 896-2531 Fax: (347) 923-5389 M-F: 9:00am - 5:30pm
Chinatown 168 Canal Street Suite 308 New York, NY 10013 (212) 226-6157 Fax: (212) 226-6380 M-Su: 8:30am - 6:00pm
Flushing 36-36 Main Street Suite 2SB Flushing, NY 11354 (718) 896-4511 Fax: (718) 362-2497 M-Su: 9:00am - 5:30pm
Inwood 100-02 Post Avenue New York, NY 10034 (212) 942-3111 Fax: (212) 942-8883 M-F: 9:00am - 5:30pm
Patchogue 232 East Main Street Patchogue, NY 11772 (631) 475-7200 Fax: (631) 475-7211 M-F: 8:30am - 6:00pm Sa: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Ridgewood 1674 Putnam Avenue Ridgewood, NY 11385 (718) 896-2694 Fax: (347) 923-6124 M-F: 10:00am - 6:30pm Sa: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Spring Valley 175-11 Route 59 Spring Valley, NY 10977 (845) 356-0194 Fax: (845) 426-0694 M-F: 9:00am - 5:30pm Sa: As needed for special events
Sunset Park 837 58th Street 4th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11220 (718) 633-5308 Fax: (718) 633-5608 M-F: 8:30am - 6:00pm Sa-Su: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Westbury 180 Post Avenue Westbury, NY 11590 (516) 334-6588 Fax: (516) 334-6440 M-F: 8:30am - 6:00pm Sa: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Yonkers 419B South Broadway Yonkers, NY 10705 (914) 233-5222 M-F: 8:30am - 5:00pm Sa: 10:00am - 6:30pm
1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)
TTY: 1-800-421-1220
To learn more about applying for health insurance through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.
Saturday, October 25, 2014 Concert 7:00 pm
A Production of Newark Symphony Hall’s Production of Newark Symphony A Production Hall’s Symphony Hall’s Hall’s A of Newark Newark Symphony Symphony Hall’s A Production Production of
Gospel at at the the Roots Roots Series Gospel Series Honoring:October Mayor Ras Baraka Saturday, 25, 2014 (Doors Open — 6:00 pm)
Sarah Vaughan Concert Hall
Saturday, October October 25, 25, 2014 October 25, 2014 Saturday, Concert 7:00 pm 2014 Concert 7:00 pm
Concert 7:00 pm pm (Doors Open7:00 — 6:00 pm) (Doors Open — 6:00 pm) (Doors Open — —Concert 6:00 pm) pm) (Doors Open 6:00 Sarah Vaughan Hall
A Production of Newark Symphony Hall’s l l
Sarah Vaughan Vaughan Concert Concert Hall Vaughan Concert Hall Sarah Hall Gospel at the Roots Series s Honoring: Mayor Ras Baraka Honoring: Mayor Ras Baraka
Honoring: Mayor Ras Baraka
Honoring: Mayor Baraka Ras Baraka Saturday, October 25, 2014 2 A Production of NewarkRas Symphony Hall’s
Gospel at the Roots Series Honoring: Mayor Ras Baraka a Concert 7:00 pm
(Doors Open — 6:00 pm)
Sarah Vaughan Concert a l Dr.Hall Albert J. Lewis & Richard Smallwood The Voices of Victory
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Concert 7:00 pmDr. Albert J. Lewis &
Dr. & (Doors Open — 6:00 pm) Richard TheAlbert VoicesJ. ofLewis Victory Richard Smallwood Smallwood Dr. Albert J. Lewis & Dr. Dr. Albert J.Lewis Lewis& & TheAlbert Voices J. of Victory Sarah Vaughan Concert Hall Richard Richard Smallwood Smallwood The Voices of Victory The TheVoices Voicesof ofVictory Victory
Honoring: Mayor Ras Baraka Richard Smallwood
Dr. Albert J. Lewis & A A
The Voices of Victory V V
Dr. Albert J. Lewis &
Richard Smallwood TICKETS: Orchestra/Orchestra Circle $30; The Voices of Victory
Mezzanine $20; Dress Circle $15; Balcony $12
TICKETS: Orchestra/Orchestra Circle $30; TICKETS: Orchestra/Orchestra Circle $30; TICKETS: Orchestra/Orchestra Circle $30; le Mezzanine $20; Dress Circle $15; Balcony $12 $12 Mezzanine $20; Dress Circle $15; Balcony lc T ICKETS :: Orchestra/Orchestra $30; Purchase tickets Newark Hall Mezzanine $20;atDress CircleSymphony $15;Circle Balcony $12 Box Office TICKETS ICKETS Orchestra/Orchestra Circle $30;
Mezzanine $20; Dress Circle $15; Balcony $12 973.643.8014 or Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 Mezzanine $20; Dress Circle $15;Symphony Balcony $12 Purchase tickets at Newark Hall Box Office a Purchase tickets at Newark Symphony Hall Box Office Purchase tickets at Newark Symphony Hall Box Office 973.643.8014 or Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 0 . 973.643.8014 or Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 Purchase tickets Symphony Hall 973.643.8014 or Newark Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 Purchase tickets at at Newark Symphony Hall Box Box Office Office 973.643.8014 or Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 973.643.8014 or 1.800.745.3000 Find usTicketmaster on your social favorite at social media site! Find us on your favorite media site! Find us on your favorite social media site! Find us on your favorite social media site! Find us Find us on on your your favorite favorite social social media media site! site!
Roll Call for PC_Summer_14.qxp_Roll Call for PC Document.qxd 8/5/14 7:04 PM Page 1
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GREAT
OLL
MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!
ALL
TO PROGRESS
he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.00 each (one-third of the cover price) or support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com
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Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor
Ebenezer B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Jovan Troy Davis, M.Div.
Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor
St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor
Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, Pastor
Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor
Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor
St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor
Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr, Pastor
Empire Missionary B.C., Convention NY Rev. Dr. Ronald Grant, President
Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor
The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor
Evening Star B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Washington Lundy, Pastor
Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor
Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor
Agape Christian Ministries Worship Ctr. Rev. Craig R. Jackson. Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Jasper E. Peyton, Interim Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor
Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor
Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor
Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Dr. Gadson L. Graham
Greater Faith Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA Rev. Larry L. Marcus
Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor
Greater Friendship Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. John Teabout, Pastor
Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor
Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor
Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor
Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem, NY Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor
Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor
Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor
Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor
Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Drek E. Broomes, President & CEO
St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe
Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor
It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor
Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor
St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper
Lagree Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Wayland Williams, Jr., Pastor
St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor
Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor
St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor
Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter
St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor
Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor
St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor
Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder
Businesses & Organizations 125th St. BID African American Heritage Parade American Diabetes Association American Heart Association, Northern, NJ Brown Executive Realty LLC, Morristown, NJ City National Bank Essex County College, NJ Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Medgar Evers College Mildred Crump, Newark City Council Muslim American Chamber of Commerce NAACP New Jersey* NAACP, NY State Conference* New Brunswick Theological Seminary New Jersey Performing Arts Center New York Theological Seminary New York Urban League Newark School of Theology Nubian Conservatory of Music Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Schomburg Center The College of New Rochelle United Way of Essex and West Hudson WBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. WKMB-1070AM
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!
“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the only one that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010
October Events: Save the Dates! October Events: Save thethe Dates! October Events: Save Dates! October Events: SaveA theB Dates! C
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The Rev. Dr. Charles PermanentAmjad-Ali Fracture and the Ethics and “A Tale of (at least) Two Cities: An Apparently
The Rev. Amjad-Ali Permanent Fracture and the Ethics and “A Tale of (at least)Dr. TwoCharles Cities: An Apparently Vocation of Justice.” and the Ethics Thursday October 2, 2014 “A Permanent Tale of (atFracture least) Two Cities: An and Apparently 7:00 p.m. 2, 2014 Vocation of Justice.” Thursday October Vocation of Justice.”
Permanent Fracture and the Ethics and 7:00 p.m. Vocation of Justice.” Thursday October 2, 2014
AnnuAl FAll Open HOuse 7:00 p.mA.nnuAl FAll Open HOuse
Thursday October 2, 2014 7:00 p.m. AnnuAl FAll Open HOuse
AnnuAl FAll Open HOuse Have you been listening to a friend, colleague, or Have you beendiscerning listening toa acall friend, colleague, or congregant to ministry? congregant discerning a call to ministry? Invite them to our Open House. Invite them to our Open House.
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The City in the Bible: Biblical Reflections on Urbanization, The City in the Bible: and Mission. TheGlobalization City in theon Bible: Biblical Reflections Urbanization, Biblical Reflections Urbanization, Theon City in the Bible: Globalization and Mission. $25 Donation (lunch included) Globalization and Mission. Biblical$25 Reflections Donation on Urbanization, (lunch included)6,and Monday October 2014Mission. Globalization
$25 Donation
8:30 Aincluded) .October M. TO 3:00 p.M. Monday 6, 2014 (lunch $25 Donation 8:30 A.M. TO 3:00 p.M.
included) October 2014 AMonday nswerinG THe C(lunch ry in6, THe Middle eAsT: Anel pin eACe -B 8:30AAp.THe M . TO p.uildinG M.iddle eAsT: AnswerinG COn ry3:00 THe M
October A Monday pAnel On peACe -BuildinG 6, 2014 8:30 A.M. TO 3:00 p.M. AnswerinG THe Cry in THe Middle eAsT: A pAnel On peACe-BuildinG
AnswerinG THe Cry in THe Middle eAsT: A pAnel On peACe-BuildinG
This panel explores options for entering into processes of This panel explores options forthe entering intoand processes of peace-building that respect diversity otherness peace-building that with respect the diversityforand in the region applications theotherness U.S. in the region with applications for the U.S.
Tuesday-Thursday, October 7-9, 2014 Wednesday, October 29, 2014 Tuesday-Thursday, October 7-9, 2014 Wednesday, October 29,p.2014 4:00 p.M. TO 9:00 p.M. 7:00 p.M . TO 9:00 M. Have you been listening to a friend, colleague, or This panel explores options for entering processes of 4:00 p.M. TO 9:00 p.M. 7:00 p.M. TO 9:00 p.Minto .
congregant discerning a call to ministry? peace-building that respect the diversity and otherness ll evenTs will Be Held AT THe inTerCHurCH CenTer, Invite them to our OpenAHouse. region with applications All evenTs will Be Held AT Tin Hethe inTerCHurCH CenTer, for the U.S.
475 rriverside , new ew ypanel Ork, ny 10115 Have you been listening to a friend, colleague, or d explores options for entering into processes of iverside drive rive, nThis yOrk , ny 10115 475 For additional information on attending or registering for any of these events, check our website at www.nyts.edu or diversity call 212-870-1211. congregant discerning a call to ministry? peace-building that respect and otherness Tuesday-Thursday, Octoberon7-9, 2014 29,the 2014 For additional information attending or registering for any of these events,Wednesday, check our websiteOctober at www.nyts.edu or call 212-870-1211. Invite to 9:00 our Open in7:00 the region for the U.S. 4:00them p.M. TO p.M. House. p.M. TOwith 9:00applications p.M.
Tuesday-Thursday, October 2014AT THe inTerCHurCH Wednesday, All evenTs will 7-9, Be Held CenTer, October 29, 2014 4:00 p.M. TO 9:00 p.M. 7:00 p.M. TO 9:00 p.M.
Proudly Announces our New Proudly Announces Proudly Announcesour ourour New Proudly Announces NewNew M Master aster of of a arts rts in in r religious eligious Master aster of a rts in r eligious M of a rts in r eligious l eadership and a dMinistration leadership and adMinistration lleadership and aandanddMinistration eadership and a dMinistration Designed to prepare individuals for leadership administrative positions and responsibilities Designed administrative Designed to to prepare prepare individuals individuals for for leadership leadership and administrative positions positions and and responsibilities responsibilities
in churches, religious institutions and faith-based organizations... in in churches, churches, religious religious institutions institutions and and faith-based faith-based organizations... organizations... • 48 credit degree program • • 48 48 credit credit degree degree program program ned to prepare individuals for leadership and administrative positions and responsibilities • Students can expect to acquire significant analytical and strategic skills gned to prepare individuals for leadership and administrative positions and responsibilitie • Students can expect to acquire significant analytical and strategic skills • Students can expect to acquire significant analytical and strategic skills rches, religious institutions and faith-based organizations... urches, religious institutions and faith-based organizations... • Curriculum promotes growth, stability and teamwork in aa religious organizational • • Curriculum Curriculum promotes promotes growth, growth, stability stability and and teamwork teamwork in in a religious religious organizational organizational context context 48 credit degreecontext program 48 credit degree program • Graduates can expect to be prepared to serve as executive ministers, managers, or • • Graduates Graduates can can expect expect to to be be prepared prepared to to serve serve as as executive executive ministers, ministers, managers, managers, or or administrators in leadership of faith-based or non-profit organizations tudents can expect to acquire significant analytical and strategic skills administrators in leadership of faith-based or non-profit organizations administrators in leadership of faith-based or non-profit organizations
Students can expect to acquire significant analytical and strategic skills
Curriculum promotes growth, stability and teamwork in a religious organizational JJoin U pen HoUse oin or pen Curriculum promotes growth, stability and o teamwork in a religious organizational oin Usss F For or o pen HoUse oUse ontext o ctober 7-9, 2014 o context october ctober 7-9, 7-9, 2014 2014 -- 6:00 pm) Roundtable discussions with the NYTS Community Graduates can expect to be (4:00 prepared to serve as executive ministers, managers, or (4:00 6:00 pm) Roundtable discussions with NYTS Community (4:00 - 6:00 pm)- Roundtable discussions withofthe the NYTS Community (6:00 9:00 pm) Visit the class(es) your choice (6:00 9:00 pm) Visit the class(es) of your choice (6:00 - 9:00 pm) the class(es) of organizations your choiceministers, managers, or dministrators in expect leadership of faith-based non-profit Graduates can to be prepared toorVisit serve as executive For additional information, or to reserve your space, contact:
For additional information, or to reserve your space, contact: ForAdriane additional information, oror to or reserve your space,organizations contact: administrators in leadership of faith-based non-profit Hill at 212-870-1212; e-mail: ahill@nyts.edu Adriane Hill at 212-870-1212; or e-mail: ahill@nyts.edu Adriane Hill at 212-870-1212; or e-mail: ahill@nyts.edu Our Programs: Our Our Programs: Programs:
Join Us For open HoUse
The Certificate Program in Christian Ministry || The Certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) The Certificate Program in Ministry Certificate in Pastoral Education (CPE) The Certificate Program in Christian Christian Ministry | The The Certificate in Clinical Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) The Master of Divinity Degree | The Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling | The Master of Arts in Religious Education The Master of Divinity Degree | The Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling | The Master of Arts in Religious The Master ofThe Divinity Degree | in TheReligious Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling | Theof Master ofYouth Arts inMinistry Religious Education Education Master of Arts Leadership and Administration | The Master Arts in The Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Administration | The Master of Arts in Youth Ministry The Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Administration | The Master of Arts in Youth Ministry The Doctor of Ministry The The Doctor Doctor of of Ministry Ministry
JoinoU s For pen HoUse ctober 7-9,o 2014 october 7-9, 2014
NYTS | 475 Riverside Drive,Roundtable Suite 500 | Newdiscussions York, NY 10115 | (T)the 212-870-1211 | (F) 212-870-1236 | www.nyts.edu (4:00 - 6:00 pm) with NYTS Community NYTS NYTS || 475 475 Riverside Riverside Drive, Drive, Suite Suite 500 500 || New New York, York, NY NY 10115 10115 || (T) (T) 212-870-1211 212-870-1211 || (F) (F) 212-870-1236 212-870-1236 || www.nyts.edu www.nyts.edu
(6:00 - 9:00 pm) Visit the class(es) of your choice
(4:00 - 6:00 pm) Roundtable discussions with the NYTS Community For additional information, or to reserve your space, contact: (6:00 - 9:00 pm) Visit the class(es) of your choice Adriane Hill at 212-870-1212; or e-mail: ahill@nyts.edu
ADRIAN COUNCIL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK
“He who would become greatest among you, let him become server of all.”—Jesus of Nazareth
The Positive Community Choice . . . . . . A Positive Community Ideal ver the past three years The Positive Community has hosted a popular series of engaging, enlightening conversations about the future. The Newark Leadership Roundtable Series was inspired by the late Gus Heningburg; Al Koeppe, former president and CEO of the Newark Alliance of corporations, businesses, public sector and private institutions; Professor Clement A. Price director, of the Institute of Ethnicity, Culture and the Modern Experience, Rutgers–Newark and Dr. M. William Howard senior pastor, Bethany Baptist Church, Newark, along with Media Consultant Kay Lucas, and The Positive Community team. The objective is to seek realistic, lasting solutions to the manifold challenges and uncertainties confronting today’s urban multiethnic African American communities in areas of health, education and business—economics and finances. Our goal, simple and straightforward, is to gather our best thinkers and apply their knowledge and wisdom to problem-solving from a glass half-filled perspective.
O
The First Step For example, instead of addressing today’s political hot-button issues around education, we chose to explore “the real components of a quality education.” On health, we engaged our young people in conversation at an event Get Healthy Hip-Hop and a subsequent roundtable about health and public safety with the question “how do we inspire the clean, orderly and safe community of the future?” Our entrepreneurial roundtable was themed From Striving to Thriving: Creating Wealth in a 21st Century Economy. The most recent discussion on financial freedom was entitled: Power Principles of Creating, Managing and Growing True Wealth (go to www.thepositivecommunity.com). Join us on Saturday, October 25 on the campus at the Rutgers Newark School of Business for our next roundtable: Everyday Entrepreneurs. The focus of these discussions was never about “how to,” but rather potentials and possibilities; hope and opportunity—a positive community ideal. Here, we deal with the community-building essentials of all future development: the progress of our children and the integrity of our culture, values and traditions. Indeed, it’s about our most important assets: our children, our culture, the very “talent” entrusted to each of us that will secure prosperity, health, happiness and freedom now and for that of generations yet unborn. We must, therefore, muster our individual and collective
10 The Positive Community
September 2014
faith—the will, the courage to move it forward and to keep it moving, political, social and economic circumstance notwithstanding. A journey of one thousand miles begins with the first step! Special thanks to community partners: Wells Fargo Bank, Verizon, Barnabas Health, Horizon NJ Health, Razac Products Company, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakeries, City National Bank, New Jersey Education Association, Newark Symphony Hall, Newark Club, The Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurial Studies at Montclair State University, Rutgers University, Bergen Community College, Essex Community College and a host of churches and community-based institutions for their foresight and support of this great Leadership Roundtable project.
Meet the Challenge
In this 15th anniversary year of The Positive Community magazine, we remain ever committed to the ideals of quality service and business excellence. For we believe that the future greatness of American business success lies in the ability to augment the profit motive with a service motive—everybody can win—after all, kindness, fairness and compassion are qualitative attributes. That is why we’ve teamed up with the good folks at Prudential Financial to introduce The Positive Community Choice Awards. Now is the time to celebrate achievement and encourage one another! We need to hear from you. Do you know an unsung hero doing extraordinary work? Someone who gives back to the community, who deserves recognition for their commitment to loving, unselfish service to their fellows? The Positive Community Choice Awards is looking for people who are actively doing something and making a real difference by stepping out of their own comfort zone to meet the challenge and advance the cause in health, education or business in our community. One winner in each category will receive $1,000 for the charity of their choice, a feature story in The Positive Community magazine and invitations to a private reception in their honor. Tell us about your candidate in writing. All nominations for The Positive Community Choice Awards must be received by October 8, 2014. Visit our website, www.thepositivecommunity.com/choice, for details. Remember this: Every single nomination represents a “Yes” vote for the spirit of progress and truth; peace and goodwill in our lives and that of our neighbors, friends and the children—a positive community ideal, “The Positive Community Choice…! www.thepositivecommunity.com
Choice Awards Know somebody making a positive difference in the community?
As part of The Positive Community's 15th Anniversary Celebration, you can nominate someone for the Positive Community Choice Awards! Visit thepositivecommunity.com/choice for details Sponsored by
BISHOP REGINALD T. JACKSON GUEST EDITORIAL
Bishop Reginald T. Jackson is the Chair of the AME Social Action Commission.
Freedom Sunday
ovember 4, 2014 is Election Day and across the nation we will elect governors, members of Congress and a host of municipal officials. All election days are important, but this year is more important than others. This election will determine who controls the Congress, whether the President will be able to get his legislative priorities through the Congress, whether states will implement policies that improve the quality of life of all citizens, and whether the nation will remain as polarized and divided as it has ever been. We have seen since 2010, election efforts that would turn back the clock for the poor, minorities and women. There has been a sharp rightward turn fueled by the so called “Tea Party” declaring “we want our country back.” The question is “who are the ‘we’ and from whom?” Our nation finds itself in this position because in the 2010 elections, African Americans, other minorities, and young people did not turn out to vote. In fact, less than 40 percent of these groups voted. The nation cannot afford for this to happen again in November 2014. We must get African Americans not only to register, but also to vote. The future of our nation and our children’s futures will be determined in large part by the outcome of this election. Because it is so important, a number of African American faith leaders have joined together with the
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Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and designated Sunday, September 21st as “Freedom Sunday.” On this Sunday, we are asking all of our pastors in their sermons to lift up our responsibility as Christians to vote, how our faith should help us in determining how we vote, and how our vote can make a difference. I write this editorial to ask every pastor and congregation in the New York City and northern New Jersey area to join with other pastors and congregations across this country in this effort. The Black Church has historically played a major role in seeing that our people and communities are politically empowered, and we must continue to do so now. Freedom Sunday is to involve not only the pastors, but every congregation as well. Every pastor should appoint a committee in the local church that will: a.) compile a list of registered voters in the congregation, b.)conduct voter registration efforts in the church and community, c.)make arrangements for those needing transportation to the polls, d.)encourage and remind registered voters in congregations to vote, e.) conduct door to door and get out the vote efforts, providing the community with reasons why it is important for them to vote and what could be lost if they don’t vote, f.)provide inserts in weekly bulletins regarding upcoming elections and voting. Elections have consequences. If control of the US Senate changes, for all practical purposes, the Obama presidency is over. If the election results create the situation that the same party that now controls the House of Representatives also controls the Senate, Congress could vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). If control of the Senate changes, vacancies on the US Supreme Court and any other nominations by President Obama will have to be approved by the new Senate majority. Spending for domestic programs such as Pell Grants, education, housing, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps) and other programs that benefit the middle class and the poor may be cut. Today, many in the nation and our communities are realizing the consequences of the elections of 2010 and 2012. We may not want a repeat in 2014. If not we need to register, become informed and vote—not primarily on the basis of party, but on who you believe is the best candidate and represents your views. Pastors, please support this effort and on Sunday, September 21, participate in “Freedom Sunday.” www.thepositivecommunity.com
dfree®
financial freedom 3rd Annual
CONFERENCE
First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens 771 Somerset Street, Somerset, NJ
November 7 & 8 • 8am–4pm
Keynote Speakers Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr. Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, NJ
Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake
Ambassador
Senior Pastor, The Greater Audrey P. Marks Allen A.M.E. Cathedral Chairman of Paymaster of New York (Jamaica) Limited
Dr. Randal Pinkett
Mark Hug
Benjamin Robinson
Chairman & CEO BCT Partners
Executive Vice President Product and Marketing Prudential Individual Life Insurance
Chief Administration Officer Prudential Annuities
Martin Wong Chief Integrity Officer Think Finance
dfree® Conference Rebuilding Credit • Repairing Credit • Student Loans • Real Men, Real Money Investing 101 • dfree® for Seniors • Retire in Style • Supercharge your Income Taxes and the IRS • I’m dfree® ...now what? Lifestyle Testimonies from dfree® Participants • dfree® for Pastors Only • dfree® Train-the-Trainer
Explosion
GOSPEL
Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake Senior Pastor The Greater Allen A.M.E Cathedral • Kathy Taylor • SmokieQueens, Norful NY
Friday 7pm
featuring Pastor Rev. Stef & Jubiliation
Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr. Senior Pastor
REGISTER TODAY www.mydfree.org
AVRA RICE GUEST EDITORIAL
Arva Rice is president and CEO of the New York Urban League.
From a Moment to a Movement: Civil Rights 2.0 n April of 2012, a few days after George Zimmerman had been arrested, I penned an article simply titled “After the Protest: From a Moment to a Movement.” In the article, I asked, how we move the chants for justice into a consistent call for change? How do we draw the anger over the loss of one life into accountability for the loss of any life? How do the tears and pleas of the mothers of Trayvon Martin, Sean Bell, and Amadou Diallo awaken the conscience of a nation? Tragically, another mother has been added to the voices, and the question still remains regarding how to make this time be the last time. My article argued that we needed to create a space for the next generation to learn and lead in traditional civil rights organizations as well as invite younger people who have created organizations of their own. My belief was built on conversations I had with members of our own Young Professionals group and leads of organizations that had been created since Trayvon Martin’s death. It was also built on knowledge of our own history that SNCC furthered the civil rights movement in ways that CORE, the NAACP and my own Urban League could not. My assertion is also meant to counter a prevailing argument that somehow our community goes from being angry to indifference and without a headline inducing incident that we do not care about the well-being of our children. Our issues, injustices, and inequalities only make the news when there is a headline or during the precious few days of February. Unless you are at our dining room conversations, in our church pews on Sundays, or part of our social or sports clubs, you only see those that protest. But the fact is that there are hundreds of thousands of mothers, fathers, uncles and aunties who pray that the ones they kiss goodbye in the morning will come home unscathed at night. Some of these people will march and protest—while others will not—so we must create a civil rights movement that engages those that the civil rights movement left further behind. Indeed it is Civil Rights 2.0. Civil Rights 2.0 is the option to march, because marching is a time honored tra-
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dition that publicly declares we disagree, and demands audience to voice concerns. But it is also creating new ways to engage, give back, and make change. Then, we refused to sit in the back of the bus; now, we must buy the bus company. Then, we did sit-ins; now, we need to own the franchise. Then, we pleaded with the federal government to do what city and local municipalities would not. Now, we need to run for office, school board, community and land use boards. Then, our bravest youth rode the freedom buses; now, we must ride the bus to your local mentor organization and mentor students of color. Then, people walked door to door to fundraise and gather sympathizers; now, we can use social media to gather support and fundraise locally and internationally. Then, communities would pool resources to send the most promising child to college; now, we must support our Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Then, a precious few went to college or owned a business; now, we are positioned to have influence in positions never before held by people of color. But we must act—now. Civil Rights 2.0 is taking direct service and direct action and marrying it with creating access to decision-makers and directly influencing policy. It is creating a place for individuals who want to contribute to the communities in ways that utilize their power and networks as well as technology. Civil Rights 2.0 is creating career paths for jobs that our grandparents never imagined and helping those navigate careers inside doors that were never open to us. Civil Rights 2.0 is mindful of the educational and economic options that we did not have if it were not for the civil rights movement, and the diversity of experiences and world views that the civil rights movement has made possible. Civil Rights 2.0 is intergenerational, it is inclusive, it is relevant and it has begun. I invite you to join us as we further define, embrace and implement a vision for the next generation of the civil rights movement. You can like us at: www.facebook/pages/New-York-Urban-League follow us at @NYUrbanLeague or call us at 212-926-8000.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW
Rev. Nance is pastor of The Church by the Side of the Road in Passaic, NJ. She is also a radio talk show host and documentary filmmaker.
LISTEN TO THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY HOUR ON WKMB 1070 AM HARVEST RADIO, MONDAYS, 1:30–2:30 P.M. WITH HOST THERESA NANCE.
Back to School and Back in the Day t hardly seems possible that we’re already watching energetic kids donning backpacks and heading straight toward the schoolhouse. Yes, it’s that time of year again. We’ve had a tumultuous summer as caring people of every hue came out to protest the deaths of Eric Garner and Michael Brown. Garner lived on Staten Island. Brown was a native son of Ferguson, MO. Both died in murky circumstances at the hands of police officers. I don’t know . . . When I went to school (yes when knighthood was in flower), things were not only different but seemingly simpler and safer. Candied apples on a stick were in great supply in September and October. As the days got shorter and the heat of summer began to wane, you heard the crunch of fallen leaves under your feet as you walked to the schoolhouse. I think the greatest problem facing young girls back then was which boy would let you wear his ring around your neck. And, of course, he had to be an athlete. A three-letter man was even better. The guys were interested in... girls. But, many still wanted to play football, basketball, or wrestle —perhaps not in that order. Police didn’t patrol the halls back then. A principal’s reprimand was the last word. There was no ACLU coming to anybody’s rescue. And, if a parent had to come in because a child misbehaved, woe be unto that child because we were disciplined with spankings and punishments. That’s the way it was back then in the schoolhouse. Friday night dances were to die for, especially those held at the local YWCA. The dance usually ended at 10 o’clock. Yes, our parents knew where their children were. And, walking home from a dance or social wasn’t like walking on a minefield or in a war zone, at least, not among my acquaintances. We had pep rallies in the auditorium and rooted for our team. In Passaic, we were known as the Passaic Indians. The city, at one time, was home to a large Native American population. By the way, we were proud of that name and on Fridays we sang our school song on our way to school in anticipation of a victory from our football team the following day.
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There was a couple who opened a store and many of us patronized that place because there was a jukebox inside and we slow-dragged to Smokey Robinson singing, “Baby, Baby,” or Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers singing, “Share.” It was a time of innocence. It was a time of laughter; a time when a slice of pizza cost 15 cents. We topped our days off by watching American Bandstand when we came home from school. Dick Clark, I thank you for the wholesome shows you produced and we religiously watched at 4 p.m. daily. We got to know those Philadelphia kids who became household names, i.e., Arlene and Kenny, Bob and Justine, etc. Life was good. No, it was great! Little did I know that farther up the road I would live during a time when youngsters would not only duck bullets on the way to and from school, but angrily use such weaponry to settle a dispute about a so-called staring diss. I cannot fathom what’s ahead. Thank God for memories. Thank God that each day we get a chance to learn and do better. And let’s all pray that our children will enjoy a safe and productive school year and create pleasant memories of their own. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright
L–R: Rev. Colin Campbell, pastor, United Community Baptist Church; Deacon Allan S. Mathew; Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright and First Baptist Assistant Pastor Rev. Daryl G. Bloodsaw
Unity Breakfast speaker, Rev. Alphonso Wyatt
Men’s Day at First BC of Crown Heights
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The Men’s Ministry of First Baptist
Photos: Lem Peterkin
he First Baptist Church of Crown Heights celebrated its annual Men’s Day recently with the theme, “The Journey To Becoming God’s Man.” The three-night revival was led by the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, pastor emeritus of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois. Each night he carried the congregation higher toward the mountaintop, culminating on Friday night with a spirit-filled, moving expository examination of Psalm 91 reminding all, but particularly the men, that God’s covering is sufficient for black men. On Saturday morning, joined by men’s ministries from throughout Brooklyn, the men of First Baptist celebrated their first Unity Breakfast. The inimitable Rev. Dr. Alphonso Wyatt of the Greater Allen Cathedral in Jamaica, Queens was the guest speaker. Sunday afternoon, Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle concluded the Men’s Day celebration with a message inspired by God. Dr. McMickle is president and professor of Church Leadership at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, New York. Reverend Dr. Clarence Norman Sr. is senior pastor of First B.C. of Crown Heights.
First Baptist folks greet Rev. Wright
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Members of men’s ministries from Concord, Mt. Sinai, St. Paul and others www.thepositivecommunity.com
“ We’ve created a Managed Long Term Care program that’s specific to the needs of you and your family.” Gwendolyn Barr, Horizon NJ Health
Is it getting harder for you to take care of your loved one safely?
But you don’t want to place her in a skilled nursing facility. What if we could
provide long-term care and support for her at her home…in her community? Learn how our Managed Long Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) program helps eligible* members to live comfortably and safely in their own homes and communities in New Jersey. Call our toll-free Horizon NJ Health Enrollment Hotline to learn more about how to apply: 1-844-444-4410 (TTY services are available at 1-844-889-7700) *Members must meet certain financial and clinical (medical) requirements to be eligible for the MLTSS program. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon® name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2013 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey Three Penn Plaza East,Newark, New Jersey 07105.
Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce
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he Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) recently hosted its annual Economic Development Awards Luncheon as part of HARLEM WEEK.
L–R: Former NYS Governor David Patterson, Lloyd Williams GHCC, former NYC Mayor David N. Dinkins, George Gresham (seated) president 1199 SEIU and former Bronx Borough President Fernando Ferrer. Photo: Seitu Oronde
Charity BC Boatride
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harity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY, held it’s Annual Musical Cruise aboard the World Yacht Princess in NYC. Pictured above, is Pastor Reginald Williams surrounded by members of ARC (Addicts Rehabilitation Choir). Photos: Bruce Moore
Regina Belle Rocks the Boat
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n Thursday August 7, 2014, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) held its 10th Jamboree Benefit Cruise!: A Soulful Extravaganza on the Hudson, at Chelsea Piers onboard the Spirit of New York. The cruise hosted almost 400 guests and featured a special performance by Grammy Award winner Regina Belle, along with saxophonist Darren Anderson and a live gospel show on the lower level.
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“Each Jamboree is better than the last,” exclaimed HCCI Chairman, Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis. “Unlike our annual gala, the Jamboree is priced so that our residents can afford to participate. Our goal is to encourage a sense of ownership and commitment to HCCI, among community residents. It’s a wonderful community effort!” This fun-filled event will benefit the HCCI Computer Clubhouse and HCCI’s Financial Literary program. —AAC www.thepositivecommunity.com
Money BUSINESS, MONEY & WORK
Randal Pinkett, Randy Jones, Aric Perminter, and Lawrence Hibbert
“...when companies that receive
federal contracts employ about 28 million Americans – about one in five workers
Dr. Randal Pinkett and BCT Partners at the White House
in America work for a company that has a federal contract – we also expect that our tax dollars are being used to ensure that these jobs are good jobs.”
NJ Business Witnesses Signing of the Fair Pay And Safe Workplace Executive Order
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n July 31, 2014 President Barack Obama signed the Fair Pay and Safe Workplace Executive Order. “Every year, our government signs contracts with private companies for everything from fighter jets to flapjacks, computers to pencils,” said the President at the ceremony for the signing at the White House. “And we expect our tax dollars to be spent wisely on these contracts; to get what we pay for on-time, on budget. And when companies that receive federal contracts employ about 28 million Americans –- about one in five workers in America work for a company that has a federal contract -– we also expect that our tax dollars are being used to ensure that these jobs are good jobs.” “Our tax dollars shouldn’t go to companies that violate workplace laws,” he continued, “they shouldn’t go to companies that violate worker rights. If a company is going to receive taxpayer money, it should have safe workplaces. It should pay its workers the wages they’ve earned. It should provide the medical leave workers are entitled to. It should not discriminate against workers.” Among those standing with the President on that momentous occasion were Dr. Randal Pinkett, co-founder, www.thepositivecommunity.com
chairman and CEO of the New Jersey-based, multimillion dollar management consulting and IT solutions firm, BCT Partners and his partners— Lawrence Hibbert, president; Aric Perminter, executive vice president and Dr. Jeffrey Robinson, co- founder. BCT Partners has done business with the federal government for nearly 13 years and the White House invitation served as recognition of their efforts in encouraging the growth and success of small businesses, standing for fair wages and equitable treatment and opportunities for those companies and their employees. At the signing, BCT Partners stood with Randy Jones, principal of their affiliate, The Brunswick Group (TBG). It is noteworthy that BCT Partners and The Brunswick Group have formed a Federal 8(a) Joint Venture, known as The Brunswick BCT Group, which serves clients at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Dr. Randal Pinkett was the winner of the fourth season of NBC-TV’s The Apprentice, the business-oriented reality competition. —JNW September 2014 The Positive Community
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HEAVY CIVIL CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES Current Projects • Bronx-Whitestone Bridge • Bronx River Parkway • 7th & 8th Ave Vent Plant
If You’re Ready to Buy a Home, We are ready to Help. The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers: up to $15,000.00 Down Payment Assistance 1-800-382-HOME(4663)
www.sonyma.org
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for Housing
• 2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes
2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes
We are also soliciting cost proposals for RK-65A Bronx Plaza/ Structure Rehabilitation at the RFK Bridge, Contract 130090 DC Clean Rivers Project Division Z - Poplar Point Pumping Station Replacement & Main Sewers Outfall Diversion, and RK-23A Reconstruction & Rehabilitation of the Manhattan Approach Approach to the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge.
E.E. Cruz welcomes the participation of disadvantaged, minority-owned, womanowned, and local (D/M/W/LBE) businesses on all of its projects. E.E. Cruz also recruits minority, female and local union workers. For all projects, we are looking for highly qualified M/W/L union workers and D/M/ W/LBE subcontractors and vendors certified for heavy civil construction. If you are an M/W/L union worker or you are a federal, state, or city certified D/M/ W/LBE company involved in heavy civil construction work, please contact us at (212) 431-3993 or dmwlbe@eecruz.com. E.E. Cruz is an equal opportunity employer and follows a policy of administering all employment decisions without regard to race, gender, religion, or sexual preference. *** E.E. Cruz is part of a Joint Venture with Tully Construction Co. Inc. on the 2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes Project.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
OOPS In the Etiquette Power column on page 37 in the June issue, an editing error changed the meaning of the sentence referring to business introductions. The first sentence under the heading Introducing Others should read: While social introductions are predicated on gender or age, business introductions are based on rank and hierarchy.
LAW OFFICE OF CLARENCE BARRY-AUSTIN, P.C. 76 South Orange Avenue Suite 207 South Orange, NJ 07079 TELEPHONE: 973-763-8500 FAX: 973-763-4800 MEMBER OF NJ AND NY BARS • CERTIFIED CIVIL TRIAL ATTORNEY
Selected to the New Jersey Super Lawyers List for the tenth consecutive year In the section Hooray for the Graduates on page 58 in the Summer 2014 issue the name of a graduate from Drew University was spelled incorrectly. She is Rev. Dr. Deborah Blanks, not Debra Banks.
Practice limited to personal injury and other civil litigation matters
IN PRACTICE FOR OVER 35 YEARS — EXPERIENCE MATTERS!
Email: clarenceba@gmail.com Website: www.barryaustinlaw.com
Our Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action is committed to promoting business opportunities for small, women, minority and LGBTQ owned vendors. Informational events such as this ‘Meet the Contractors and Design Professionals’ are part of our on-going effort to make information more accessible and create additional avenues to assist small, women, minority and LGBTQ owned businesses as they look to compete for large scale contracts. We encourage you to come out for this important gathering. - Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.
Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive, The Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Essex County Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action present
‘Meet the Contractors & Design Professionals’ Join us as we partner with: The African American Chamber of Commerce, The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and Essex County College to provide an informal business development opportunity for Small, women, minority and LGBTQ-owned businesses. Participants will meet and network with the general contractors present. For more information & to register for the FREE workshop, please contact 973-621-2011 or tmarshall@admin.essexcountynj.org
September 18, 2014 10:00am till 12:00pm
McLoone’s
Boathouse Restaurant 9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ
www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Can USB Drives Pose a Serious Security Threat? New Analysis Says “Yes”
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e all use USB drives, handing them back and forth like digital business cards and plugging unfamiliar ones into our computer all the time. But did you know these drives often serve as prime sources of malware and viruses? It makes sense — when a jump drive or thumb drive is shared between so many different user and computers, its chances of being corrupted increase exponentially. A recent study by security researchers Karsten Nohl and Jakob Lell, which they presented at the Black Hat hacking conference in early August, brought up an even scarier point about USB insecurity: while many malware codes reside in the flash memory storage of these external, portable devices, the one Nohl and Lell created to test the security of such devices actually hides in the firmware that directs all basic functions. Meaning the corrupted code can’t be easily detected, deleted, or removed along with the files on the drive. Unsurprisingly, antivirus and spyware programs have so far proven ineffective at stopping these kinds of deeprooted malware attacks. Nohl and Lell’s virus was shown
to be able to assume control over keyboards, issue commands to download and install malicious files, convert the USB stick into a network drive, and even corral and redirect Internet traffic from a computer’s browser. Since firmware is so hard to scan and clean, many security researchers proposed a drastic threat-mitigation solution: stop using USB drives altogether. Although sales of the devices still account for more than $2.5 billion worldwide, in this cloud-driven age of Dropbox and Google Drive, it certainly seems possible. USB insecurity isn’t a shocking new phenomenon, though. The NSA reportedly possesses modified USB cables that can infect computers and act as a wireless bridge for future surveillance efforts, and “Fake Flash Drives” are routinely manipulated to appear more full than they are before being sold to unsuspecting consumers. And it’s not just jump drives with the capacity for corruption; anything that connects via USB (keyboards, mice, printers, hard drives) can be commandeered by cyberattackers. What can you do to protect yourself, your systems, and your business from potentially infected USB drives?
1. Just say no. USB devices are certainly handy for transmitting large files and other mountains of data. But with cloud computing solutions coming into sharper focus each and every day, the necessity of USB drives may fade over time. Hopefully that will lessen the security threat. 2. If you do decide to use a USB drive, make sure it’s brand new and came straight out of the box. And remember — just because you get something for free doesn’t mean you have to use it. 3. If you must share a USB drive with a colleague, develop a protocol to assess it for viruses and malware. Many third-party apps and proactive monitoring and management solutions can scan USB drives for safety, although we recommend consulting an IT professional before choosing one. No matter what, whether you’re giving someone a jump drive to use, or receiving one in return, BE CAREFUL! It’s better to stick with the same jump drive from the time you take it out of the box until the day you put it out to pasture. 4. When in doubt, don’t risk it. Not sure whether an old USB drive is safe? Go out and splurge on a new one. The average price for a brand-new device with a whopping 64GB of storage? A mere $25. There’s no telling how many USB devices have been infected by the methods outlined by Nohl and Lell. But now is as good a time as any to ditch any old USBs you might have accumulated, make the small investment to upgrade, and remember not to share them with your colleagues. Isn’t that better than losing your entire system to a malware attack, and then having to pay for a full recovery or even new computer, all because of one little corrupted USB key?
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Contact us if you’re interested in learning more about how proactive monitoring and management can keep your systems safe — from corrupted USB keys and all the other threats of today’s IT landscape. CMIT Solutions of Northern Union 973.325.3663• 800.399.CMIT www.cmitsolutions.com/nunioncounty
www.thepositivecommunity.com
HIGHER GROUND
Wanda J. Blanchett New Dean, Rutgers Graduate School Of Education
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anda J. Blanchett, known for building bridges between universities and their host communities, began her new assignment as dean of Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Education on September 1, 2014. Prior to accepting her appointment at Rutgers, Dr. Blanchett was dean of the School of Education at the University of MissouriKansas City (UMKC), “Wanda Blanchett not only has a long and distinguished record as an administrator and educator, she is also a successful strategic planner with a deep commitment to diversity and strengthening ties between universities and communities,” said Richard L. Edwards, executive vice president for academic affairs and interim chancellor of Rutgers University-New Brunswick Blanchett received her B.S.E. and M.S.E. degrees from the University of Central Arkansas before earning her Ph.D. in special education from Pennsylvania State University in 1997. She held special education and teacher education
Amy Niles WBGO Names New President/CEO
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n announcing the promotion of Amy Niles as president and CEO of WBGO, Stephen N. Ifshin, chairman of the Board of Trustees of Newark Public Radio, Inc., the station’s licensor, was effusive in his praise. “Amy has the leadership skills and dedication to guide WBGO and fulfill its mission as the global voice of jazz,” said Ifshin. Nile, who joined the station in 2006 as senior vice president/chief operating officer, became acting president/CEO last year, when Cephas Bowles took a leave of absence for health reasons. Under her leadership, the station has strengthened the WBGO brand, initiated financial and programmatic joint ventures with corporations, foundations and non-profits including NJPAC, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Brooklyn Museum of Art, and Gateway Center Newark. WBGO has also developed strategic partnerships with educational and cultural venues throughout New York
www.thepositivecommunity.com
faculty appointments at Syracuse University, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the University of ColoradoDenver before becoming associate dean for academic affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2004, associate dean for academic programs and curriculum at the University of Colorado-Denver in 2006 and dean of the UMKC School of Education in 2009. Throughout her administrative career, Blanchett has continued to be actively involved in her academic disciplines of teacher education, special education and urban education. She is a member of several scholarly and professional associations, including the American Association for Colleges of Teacher Education, the American Educational Research Association and the Council for Exceptional Children. Rutgers’ Graduate School of Education (GSE) has been a national leader in preparing educators since 1923 and offers master’s and doctoral degree programs as well as research-based professional education for teachers, administrators and other education leaders.
and New Jersey. Ms. Niles oversees strategic planning efforts including introduction of new media (web, podcasts, streaming, mobile) and digitization; expansion of travel and special events, and the development of new nationally syndicated programming in partnership with NPR. She was recently appointed to Newark Mayor Ras Baraka’s transition team for Arts and Culture. “In making that temporary appointment permanent,” Ifshin said, “the Board affirmed Amy’s ability to lead WBGO and its staff into a new era of accomplishment and success.” As President and CEO, Niles is responsible for a $5.5 million operating budget and manages a staff of about 50 and a volunteer force of hundreds. Retiring President Cephas Bowles said “I look forward to supporting the next generation of WBGO leadership to move the station to new levels of service to the world.” Niles acknowledged Bowles’ decades of service. “Cephas has been a tireless advocate for jazz and for this station,” she said. Under Niles, Ifshin said, the station will continue to seek ways to innovate and to engage and expand audiences. “Amy is committed to boosting WBGO’s reputation as the preeminent public radio station in the jazz community.” “I’m incredibly enthusiastic about the future,” said Niles. “I know that as WBGO’s reach and influence grows, we will continue to undertake and achieve great things.” September 2014 The Positive Community
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Razac Products Company Remembers L–R: WBLS/WLIB president, Deon Levingston, John Harmon, president African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ with guest, and WBLS personality, “Doctor” Bob Lee
Annual Golf Outing Honors Founder William J Dowdy
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Photos: Darryl Hall
he Razac Company, the family owned and operated cosmetic manufacturer in Newark, NJ honored the company’s founder, the late William J Dowdy by establishing a foundation in his name. Siblings, Jalil, Darren and Devon host the annual William J Dowdy Foundation Golf Outingto raise funds in an effort to continue their father’s efforts to give back to the community. The foundation not only provide college scholarships, they also foster opportunities for young people in Newark to have exposure to the arts, culture, science
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L–R: Jalil Dowdy of Razac, Kay Lucas, media consultant, banking executive and family member, Carey Hines
and athletics In addition The foundation is dedicated to the implementation of crisis intervention and disaster relief programming that offers assistance to individuals who require emergency aid. Support from colleagues, friends and customers at the Annual Golf Classic helps to make these efforts realities. Over $250,000 has been raised for college scholarships and community Programs. This year’s 9th Annual Golf Outing was held on August 25, 2014 at Cedar Hill Golf & Country Club in Livingston, NJ. —JNW
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Pre -Anniversary Events
The “Sons Come Home”
to Walker Memorial 11:00 a.m. service September 21, 2014 Dr. Richard Hartley & Haven International Ministries Rockaway Beach, NY
September 28, 2014 Rev. Dr. William B. Sutton, III and First Baptist Church of Stratford, Stratford, CT
October 5, 2014 Rev. Elmer P. Hardy, Jr. and Union Temple Church, New Haven, CT
Walker Memorial Baptist Church 32nd “Blue-Diamond” Pastoral Anniversary Celebration for
Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush, Sr. “32 Years of Ministry; a Lifetime of Missions” Friday, October 3, 2014 Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood , Pastor Guest Speaker Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church
October 12, 2014 ANNIVERSARY SUNDAY Rev. Dr. John W. McVicker, Sr. Christ the King Baptist Churh Milwaukee, WI
Astoria World Manor 25-22 Astoria Blvd, Astoria, NY 11102 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Tickets $100.00
Deacon Cheryl L. Forbes, General Chairperson
For more ticket information please call (718) 588-4262. All checks should be payable to Walker Memorial Baptist Church.
nt
re pr en e
re ne ur
eE Th
s
The Positive Community and the Newark Leadership Roundtable Series sponsored by
presents u ri ay al R d y oundtable: Ever
p e r t En
SAVE THE DATE Saturday October 25 • 9am-1pm • Call 973-233-9200 The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship & Economic Development (CUEED) Rutgers Business School Newark & New Brunswick 1 Washington Park, Newark, NJ 07102 www.thepositivecommunity.com
September 2014 The Positive Community
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Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE
It’s All about Community and Making a Difference Nancy Cantor: Rutgers University-Newark’s Chancellor BY GLENDA CADOGAN
T
he urban metropolis that is Newark, New Jersey is a far cry from that of Manhattan’s Upper West Side where Nancy Cantor was born and spent her formative years. But it was those New York City childhood experiences like riding the subway 45 minutes each way to school every day that informed her life choices as a social psychologist and a higher education leader. As Chancellor of Rutgers University-Newark, Cantor now creates opportunity to make those experiences work in favor of the 12,000 students of the University’s academic mission, which is “to provide a first-rate education to an exceptionally diverse community of undergraduates and graduate students.” “The kind of excitement, diversity and vibrancy that I experienced every day while riding the subway to school is something that I really grew to love and respect,” says Cantor. “It was the world at my doorsteps.” Moreover, she grew up with two socially conscious parents at a time when the Civil Rights, Anti-war and Women’s Movements were part of the national agenda. She was a young observer of her mother’s work in getting social services to groups that might not otherwise get them. “I think this kind of engagement in community was very important and as I watched it closely, it helped shape my value system,” she reflected.
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In January of 2014, Cantor came to Rutgers University-Newark as its chancellor and found that it was very much like the New York City subway of her childhood. One of the University’s tag lines about its student population supports this view: Jersey roots, global reach! “My first impression was the incredible diversity on this campus,” she explained. “The whole world is here. There are a lot of first-generation college students; students with different heritage, language, ethnic and racial backgrounds and experiences. And it is as vibrant and exciting as riding the New York City subway.” To another, this kind of melting pot may seem a little too hot to handle. But to Cantor, it was a pot full of blessings. In addition, Chancellor Cantor felt that she was doubly blessed with what she says is, “a world-class faculty. Indeed it was a blessing to find a faculty that is devoted to the role they can play in the lives of students and that they can collectively play in the community,” she added. Though she has always been intrigued by groups and intergroup relationships, Cantor’s initial designs were not on being a social psychologist. In fact, far to the contrary, she wanted to be a dancer, following a career path that had been engendered from her youthful days in ballet classes. “But ultimately, my back would not cooperate Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com
“ My first impression was the incredible diversity on this campus, the whole world is here. There are a lot of firstgeneration college students; students with different heritage, language, ethnic and racial backgrounds and experiences.”
“A
ll of the experience I gained in the human rights struggle was applicable to this new frontier of human rights.
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for Education
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with that choice,” she said with a chuckle. “So instead I followed a field of study that supported my intrigue.” As a social psychologist, Chancellor Cantor is extremely interested in the issues of access, affordability, social mobility and social justice. Looking at how higher education can be an avenue for social mobility led to the position of chancellor of Syracuse University where she spearheaded the pursuit of its vision, Scholarship in Action, a view of the university not as a traditional “ivory tower,” but as a public good. “I think that the role that higher education institutions play in the community in which they are located and of which they are a part is so important,” she explained. “The kind of collaborative work that can be done is what I call scholarship in action – using expertise in a collaborative way to really make a difference.” It is this kind of “scholarship in action” that is anticipated in Newark as Chancellor Cantor unveiled and ultimately put into action, her strategic plan for the university. The plan involves what she refers to as “anchor institutions work. We are talking about things like cultural partnerships in downtown Newark, creating collaborative work around getting students to college, creating partnerships in neighborhoods around greening vacant spaces and addressing concerns about health and safety issues.” To a degree, this plan is already in motion as the university has embedded itself in the process of the rebuilding and resurgence of Newark. Forging partnerships with neighborhood groups, CBOs, cultural institutions, performing arts, museum, corporate parties and the City of Newark, Rutgers-Newark is committed to making changes in the community, such as renovating historic buildings, increasing the number of Newark residents who go to college and collaborations on public safety. But as with everything else, there are challenges both present and those yet to come. However, Chancellor
Cantor believes that those challenges she has identified are not singular or unique to Rutgers UniversityNewark. “I think that American higher education faces a challenge in general of being affordable for people and making sure that we reach and cultivate a very broad pool of talent,” she said. “Additionally, it’s always a challenge making sure that we are creating cutting edge programs that really play to the interdisciplinary work that makes a difference in the world.” However, with a leadership style centered on collaboration, Chancellor Cantor has made strides toward addressing these changes in her sphere of influence. She has done so by holding several town hall meetings, doing visioning exercises and having conversations with her team. By so doing she is positioning Rutgers-Newark to an even greater sense of community. “I am very much about teamwork,” So with a solid team behind her, Chancellor Cantor looks to the far future with hopes that what would be said of her leadership is that she created “a model diverse, urban research university that is responsive to its environment.” In the process of “creating this legacy,” Cantor’s enthusiasm is fueled by “watching lives change by what we do.” And though her relaxation time is minimal at best, she is fond of taking long walks along the water. It is at those choice contemplative times that she says quietly to herself, “It’s great to come to know Newark!”
Reform
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In the charter school movement, I am continuing the work of Dr. King that has far reaching meaning. Every American child is deserving of a quality public school education. Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker Available NOW at: Author, Theologian, Cultural Historian Barnes & Noble and Former Chief of Staff to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Amazon.com
”
September 2014 The Positive Community
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Rutgers University-Newark. A world-class urban research university.
An anchor institution in Newark, of Newark. At Rutgers University-Newark, undergraduate and graduate students work with professors who are international leaders in their fields and engage an array of community partners in the dynamic metropolitan environment of New Jersey’s largest city and cultural capital.
Rutgers University-Newark invites you to explore the opportunities for undergraduate and graduate programs offered by: Newark College of Arts & Sciences School of Criminal Justice School of Law-Newark Rutgers Business School Graduate School-Newark School of Public Affairs and Administration
www.newark.rutgers.edu In Newark, of Newark
Kimberly Baxter McLain Building Newark’s Future on a Solid
Foundation BY R.L. WITTER
W
hen then Mayor Cory Booker and Gov. Chris Christie appeared together on the Oprah Winfrey Show in 2010 to announce Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s $100 million grant to the Newark, NJ schools, reactions varied from excitement to skepticism and everything in between. People wondered how the money would be spent, who would oversee the dispensation of funds and whether or not it was a sound investment that could show returns in the five-year span allotted. Enter former investment banker Kimberly Baxter McLain. Questions were replaced with answers and solutions and soon, the picture began to come into focus. An investment banker is defined as “an individual who works in a financial institution that is in the business primarily of raising capital for companies, governments and other entities... Investment bankers may also provide other services to their clients such as mergers and acquisition advice, or advice on specific transactions, such as a spin-off or reorganization.” By definition, McLain looks to be a perfect fit for the role of president and CEO of the Foundation for Newark’s Future, the organization charged with turning a one-time grant into a long-term investment in Newark’s chilwww.thepositivecommunity.com
dren and their education. Her additional experience on the national staff at Teach for America doubled down on her qualifications, but people still wanted to know who this woman was and what made her think she was equipped to lead the team entrusted with the education and perhaps salvation of Newark’s children. “Even though I have a background in finance and accounting, I’ve always had something nagging inside of me that I should be doing something different,” McLain explained from her Newark office. “I don’t know if it is because of my own upbringing, but I’ve always had a passion around trying to serve and help people in some way. In many ways I think that this opportunity is helping my life come full circle… I grew up in South Carolina in a very rural environment — a very Christian-focused, faith-based, strict environment,” she continued. “It instilled in me certain values and trying to help people and make a difference in their lives. So I believe that my work here at the foundation is a way for me to do that and contribute to that effort.” Drawing from her own experiences, McLain endeavors to change things from the ground up, focusing on early childhood education and giving Newark children every opportunity for success. “One thing in particular I think continue on next page September 2014 The Positive Community
31
KIM MCLAIN continued from previous page
about from my school experience is having teachers who not only wanted me to learn, but who cared about me as a person. They really nurtured my love of learning, challenged me to be even better, and were really supportive along the way,” McLain recalled. “We all need a village to have cheerleaders around us, making the kids feel good about who they are and giving them the confidence they need to try hard and to aspire and I think through my work at the foundation that in some small way I’m able to do that.” While to schoolchildren five years might seem like a lifetime, McLain and her team at the Foundation for Newark’s Future understand that time is fleeting and that not only are they charged with exacting tangible change in Newark’s educational system, but they have to do it on a very specific timeline. “What we know is that change is not going to happen overnight, so we definitely have a longterm view at the foundation and there are little anecdotes along the way that make us think we’re moving in the right direction,” she explained. “We have the My Very Own Library project where we’ve given out over 300,000 books to kids in Newark, and going to an event like that and a kid or a parent coming up to you saying ‘Thank you so much; my son is reading so much more now that we have books in our home…’ —it’s little touch points like that. We’ve also seen a couple of literacy initiatives where some Pre-K teachers are taking an active role in teaching the parents of their students how to read and how to read to their children. So we’re very proud of that as well.” Other programs sponsored by the Foundation include the Teacher Innovation Fund, which allows teachers to apply for grant monies to do things in their classrooms that the regular budget simply doesn’t allow, and helping to fund the much talked about Newark Teachers Union contract that provides merit pay for those recognized as effective teachers. “We think that one of the biggest ways that we can improve the education of our kids is to make sure that in every classroom there is a capable, competent, and loving teacher who is well-prepared to meet the kids where they are and help them become better,” McLain asserted. “So through our investment in the contract, it does have sort of a pay for performance component where the best teachers are better paid, but as importantly, it has a significant professional development aspect of it so that teachers are getting the tools, resources and knowledge that they need to improve upon their skill sets and be better teachers, leaders, and role models for the children.” While some focus on McLain’s education and background as a number cruncher, there are other aspects of her life that weigh equally in her approach to better things for Newark’s children, such as having children of her own. “My role as a ‘mom-in-chief’ as Michelle Obama would say, definitely informs my work,” she chuckled. “I want the same thing for my kids that I want for all kids, which is that they grow up in a safe, loving environment, that they get a quality education where they develop a love of learning that will allow them to be successful, and achieve whatever their dreams are… So I bring that lens to work every day as I think about programs that we are either reviewing or
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investing in—what I think the impact would be and if I as a parent in the city—first, would I take advantage of it, second, would it beneficial and third, ultimately, would it have a positive impact on kids.” While the road is long and there is very little room for instant gratification, McLain and FNF have invested resources in projects that will yield quick results, such as technological improvements.“Newark is a city with a wealth of resources, but parents don’t always know how to access them,” McLain pointed out. “We’re going to have information at their fingertips, which is eventually going to become an app; … we’re really excited...” Other projects are larger and will require a bit more patience, but having the patience and foresight to look further down the road helps McLain and her team keep both challenges and accomplishments in perspective. “We know there’s not one particular model that works for all kids... So we were proud to open a few new schools, including the Eagle Academy for Boys. We were instrumental in bringing them here and we’re very proud of that.” She continued, “One of the tenets of the OneNewark program from the district is the concept of universal enrollment where parents complete a single application that allows them to select up to eight schools and there is a process to match them. I think that the benefit of that program is that now that there’s a single application, theoretically all parents have equal access to some of the best schools in the district. So we’re very proud of our partnership there, too.” With her upbeat and outgoing persona and polished, professional demeanor, some are surprised to learn of McLain’s humble, small town beginnings. But McLain draws upon it to make the most of the opportunity she has to influence the way things are done in Newark. “Being from a small town with a population of about 400, graduating from a class of 64 and moving to the University of South Carolina with 26,000 people was almost like a different world,” she reflected. “However, despite all of the differences, there are similarities. I go to Metropolitan Baptist Church. I’ve been going there for the past decade, and being there really feels like home. It really feels like its own continued on next page
Kim McLain with Senator Booker discussing an FNF early childhood initiative at the Newark Club. Senator Booker sits on the board of FNF.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
community, its own village. And I also feel that when I’m out during the day for my meetings and site visits. Even though the population is much, much bigger than I’m accustomed to, it really is at the end of the day about individual relationships. That’s something that I really value and I have been able to make and maintain a number of valuable relationships here… Despite the size, Newark really is its own little village, similar to the one where I grew up in South Carolina.” With an eye toward the future, McLain is prepared to continue to lead the Foundation toward realizing its goal of changing the landscape for Newark’s children. “We’re looking now at how we can improve what is essentially the foundation of the K-12 system. The premise is simple; a house that is not built on a solid foundation cannot stand, so we’re trying to make investments there so that we can have positive and more long-term impact,” she said. As a mother of two young daughters, Gabrielle, 7, and Madison, 5, McLain understands the importance of her work and the legacy it will leave for Newark’s children. But she doesn’t allow that to worry or intimidate her. “I may not know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future… my faith dictates that my next step is ordered,” she proclaimed. “My faith is something that is very important to me. It’s definitely a lens that I bring to this work— wanting to do unto others as I’d have them do unto me… The concepts of working hard, being determined, and that I’m able to do all things through Christ were instilled in me and are values I still hold to this day…My church is really my rock. I completely believe in Pastor Jefferson and the vision he has established for his congregation, which is that it’s not just about religion, it’s not just about Sundays, but rather about improving the whole life experiences for the families. I believe that to be true...” She continued, “I’m now in a place where my personal and professional lives intersect and while some people may find it frustrating, I find it rewarding and I feel that I am exactly where I need to be both at work and in church.” As our time came to an end, McLain reflected once more on her upbringing and the people whose influence brought her to where she is today. “My mom, while she didn’t have a college education, she did have wisdom enough to know that her girls needed one to be successful in life
Kim McLain with Pastor Jefferson of Metropolitan Baptist Church and Curt Fields, CEO of the Turrell Fund. Kim is a member of Metropolitan. She and Curt are colleagues of the Newarkfocused Early Learning Funders Group.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
and she stopped at nothing until she made that happen. I’m appreciative of her efforts and of the whole community where I was raised. I definitely felt and to this day, even when I visit, feel that I had people in my corner really rooting for me. I think it makes a difference in a person’s life, and that has been part of the reason I’ve been afforded some of the opportunities that I have now—having such a solid foundation.” McLain paused for a moment then said, “I think that’s what we want for all kids, including the ones here in Newark. I think we’re all born from the same blank slate and it’s what happens after that that can forever alter a person’s trajectory. Through my work at the foundation and my life in general, my goal is to —where I can— level that playing field. We all believe in the vision that got us here, which is that Newark can do better for its kids, and that is our focus, plain and simple.”
T
he Foundation for Newark’s Future has a long-standing relationship with BRICK and the teachers, students, and families of its two Newark district schools - BRICK Avon Academy and BRICK Peshine Academy. Both schools take part in FNF’s My Very Own Library program, a literacy initiative that gives children ten new books each school year and engages families in celebrating a love of reading. Additionally, in 2012, FNF awarded BRICK a $100,000 grant to develop an early grade literacy plan to ensure that all students are reading on grade level by third grade, a critical determinant in student success. Most recently, FNF awarded a $125,000 grant to the South Ward Children’s Alliance, a community based organization led by BRICK that will create a Family Services Hub to provide critical social services to students and their families in Newark’s South Ward. This spring, Kim was honored to be asked by BRICK’s Founder and Executive Director, Dominique Lee (pictured), to join BRICK’s Board.
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A
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Ramapo College of New Jersey Alumnus Claude Barnes Discusses His Experience
C
laude Barnes (Teaneck, N.J.) graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey in May 2014. He earned a Bachelor of Science with a double major in accounting and economics. He will start his career with Ernst & Young in the fall. Claude discusses his experience at Ramapo. “I chose Ramapo College for its location, class size and affordability. My first semester humbled me. Being on my own and having no one telling me what to do was a blessing and a curse. After that semester, I really matured and became focused, will-
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Claude Barnes in front of the Anisfield School of Business at Ramapo College of New Jersey.
ing and determined to achieve greatness so that I could possibly leave a legacy at Ramapo. Surrounding myself with people who were as hungry played a big role in helping me develop. When I handed in that final exam, it really hit me that I was able to stay focused and to achieve my goal of graduating in three years. I built relationships with many professors and administrators to whom I am forever grateful. It is hard to single one out. I never had a lot when I was young. I never wanted to be a burden on my parents. So if I wanted something, I
saved up all the money I could and bought it myself. Being able to organize money at a young age made accounting come natural to me. I love to help others and accountants help individuals fix financial problems. I plan to be involved at Ramapo with students and helping them obtain internships and jobs. I am grateful to the professors, administrators, faculty and students who made being at Ramapo a joy. Ramapo has properly prepared me for what I can expect in life. I cannot wait until I am at a point in my life where I can establish a scholarship at Ramapo.”
Learn in small classes. Succeed in big ways. With an average class size of 23, and a student–faculty ratio of 18:1, Ramapo College is the right size. Our students are able to build meaningful, close working relationships with faculty members through mentorship, collaboration, and research opportunities. Ramapo College offers over 40 undergraduate majors and 7 part-time graduate programs that prepare our students for a lifetime of success.
Learn more at: www.ramapo.edu/why or 201-684-7300 505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as sixth in the Best Regional Universities North category for public institutions.
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The Positive Community September 2014
Featured in the Princeton Review’s “Best in the Northeast.”
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Cooking with kids! Cooking with your kids is a fun way to spend time together while teaching them a variety of important concepts. 1. Hygiene: Remind kids that before you start handling food, make sure the cooking surfaces and utensils are clean and hands are thoroughly washed. Even young children can help wash fruits and vegetables and learn to keep a tidy work surface. 2. Nutrition: If you are cooking a meal, stress the importance of including the five basic food groups. 3. Measurement: baking a cake is a fun way for kids to practice measuring ingredients. Challenge your kids: ask how much would be needed if you double the recipe. 4. Sharing: Enjoy your creations together as a family. If you cook or bake more than you need, share with relatives or neighbors. When families and schools work together, our children are the winners! Wendell Steinhauer President Marie Blistan Vice President Edward J. Richardson Executive Director
Sean M. Spiller Secretary-Treasurer Steven Swetsky Assistant Executive Director
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Upcoming Special Issue!
October
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To Advertise Call: 973-233-9200 or Email: sales@thepositivecommunity.com for rates & deadlines
OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, November 2, 2014 12:30 p.m.– 3:30 p.m. One Felician Way • Rutherford, NJ
SIGN UP! felician.edu Can’t make it to the Open House? Stop by the Castle at the Rutherford campus for a student-led tour any weekday at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. Questions? 201.355.1465 | admissions@felician.edu Felician College is Sponsored by the Felician Sisters
A 21st Century Education Based on Timeless Values
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The Positive Community September 2014
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David C. Banks: Powerhouse Visionary of the Eagle Academy Foundation By: Quinita Edmonia Good
eet David C. Banks. In our time of racial upset and the devaluing of black men, Banks and 100 Black Men–NY have built a number of schools for at-risk boys in their communities. Author, attorney, former teacher, and a long-time member of 100 Black Men–NY, this visionary president and CEO of the Eagle Academy Foundation is providing options in education and a culture of high expectation by way of six all-boys academies located in the Bronx; Brownsville, Brooklyn; Southeast Queens; Newark; Harlem; and beginning this year, Staten Island. Eagle Academy Foundation develops and supports their network of all male, grades six through 12, collegepreparatory schools in challenged, urban communities with the mission to educate and mentor young men into leaders committed to excellence in character, scholastic achievement and community service, and to promote these principles nationally. When asked how he and the 100 Black Men–NY became interested in founding the academies, Banks explained that they looked at data surrounding young black men in New York. In 2004, the graduation rate for black boys in New York was 32 percent; seven out of 10 boys weren’t graduating from high school. So, in that same year, the flagship Eagle Academy for Young Men was created in the Bronx. “Statistics paint a bleak future for inner city young men,” Banks pointed out. “The systemic failure of the public education system, extreme poverty, and the
M
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school dropout to prison pipeline are robbing our nation’s young men of their true promise. Without a defined pathway to academic and economic well-being, inner city young men are struggling to achieve.” The academies are public schools. What makes them different from other public schools is the funding and support they receive from the Eagle Academy Foundation, the high achievements that are expected of the young men, and a culture of excellence. “The money
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we raise allows the academies to bring the boys to school on Saturdays, to run after-school programs and other things the schools can’t do on their own,” Banks remarked. In addition to a rigorous liberal arts program, the Eagle Academies are known for such extra-curricular activities as robotics classes; chess clubs; sports, including lacrosse, wrestling and basketball; debate teams and legal education. According to Banks, the schools answer to the superintendent in New Jersey, and in New York they answer to the chancellor. The school districts have all the power in the hiring and firing of teachers and principals. Banks, who was an elementary school teacher at Public School 167 in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, studied law in the evenings while teaching. After earning his Juris Doctorate, he went on to earn an advanced degree in Education Administration. Working with 100 Black Men–NY, he then became the first principal of the flagship Eagle Academy in the Bronx in 2004. “We truly believe in these boys and our mission is to get them all to a place of success,” Banks explained. “We don’t misdiagnose them. We don’t write them off as being overly-aggressive. We teach them that they are to love each other and…hold each other accountable. We have a culture that says we expect these guys to be successful.” The Eagle Academies started with 100 boys in the ninth grade, and now their model is starting them as early as in the sixth grade, extending all the way to the 12th grade. The graduation rate has been 85 percent so far, with 100 percent of those graduates going on to college. In the summer of 2009, the Eagle Academy Foundation ran a Professional Development Institute (PDI). Launched to effect change at the national level, the PDI’s mission was to increase public discourse of the educational needs of at-risk urban young men. That summer, through PDI offerings, school administrators, teachers and thought leaders from across the country learned about the educational, economic and social issues affecting urban young men. Eagle Academy educators offered workshops on the Eagle Model through the PDI, and secondary school administrators as well as college and university leaders learned how to apply the Eagle Model to their communities. Held at their state-of-the-art $50 million flagship campus in the Bronx, the conference consisted of two to three days of on-site workshops and seminars hosted by the Eagle Academy Foundation and facilitated by members of the Eagle Academy faculty. Topics ranged from pedagogical content and curricular material, to strategic methods in motivation and engagement that foster the emotional intelligence among students indispensable to www.thepositivecommunity.com
the successful implementation of the Eagle Model. The conference was relevant for educators, as well as individuals interested in promoting the achievement of male students Banks says that because of the success of the 2009 PDI, the next thing on their agenda is to start an Eagle Institute, which will allow the foundation to train school districts in how to do this work on a much larger scale. The Eagle Institute will be year-round training and development work of school administrators, teachers, and educational leaders. It will also include field research, which the foundation hopes will positively affect at-risk males on a national level. Banks’ commitment to young men in urban settings is a familial approach. His dad, Philip Banks Jr., was president of 100 Black Men–NY from 2006 through 2012 and one of the founding members of the Eagle Academy in the Bronx. His brother, Phillip Banks III, is chief of department for the New York Police Department and oversees all patrol and specialty units, and manages department policy affecting diversity. “I just want to get people’s attention,” said Banks. “This is not just a feel-good story. This is an issue of real national security. Our country cannot continue to do well in the future unless we wrap our arms around what’s happening with our young men.” He continued, “People need to recognize…that if we continue to spend all our money into putting them into prison, that’s not a winning strategy. The winning strategy is how we can invest our time and money in helping them to succeed.” Speaking to the Ferguson, MO incident, Banks was empathic. “My heart aches for young men like Michael Brown and the community, who’ve had a lot of challenges with the police. But,” he added, “I think another challenge is what our young people are doing to each other…we have to do so much better as a family and as a community around making sure that our young men are getting what they need so they don’t have a sense of hopelessness. Banks’ new book Soar: How Boys Learn, Succeed and Develop Character is published by Simon & Schuster Publishing Company. “I think the book will be very helpful to parents, teachers, and policymakers—anybody who cares about our sons,” says Banks. Soar can be purchased wherever books are sold. For more information about the Eagle Academy Foundation or the Eagle Institute, contact the foundation at The Eagle Academy Foundation, 105 East 22nd Street, Suite 625, New York, NY 10010; call them at 212477-8370; or email at info@eafny.org email. Quinita Edmonia Good is a freelance writer and editor and the founder of Qwrites Writing & Editorial Services. To contact her, email qwrites@live.com. September 2014 The Positive Community
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New Jersey Students Salute Anniversary With Big Wins “A mentor is someone who sees more talent and abilities within you than you see and helps to bring it out.� Bob Proctor
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he New Jersey Afro Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) closed the 25th anniversary of the statewide mentoring program with sweeping wins at the 36th Annual National NAACP ACT-SO competition held in Las Vegas in July. To recap the season, 2014 marked the 25th anniversary of this premiere mentoring program. Organizers celebrated their 25th anniversary of mentoring young adults this year with the annual statewide competition
L–R: Chental Song Bembry Entrepreneurship National Gold Medalist, Isaiah Devereaux Mathmatics National Bronze Medalist
for 200 students held in Newark, followed by a special gala celebration for 500 guests held in Glassboro. The national team consisted of 29 students plus advisors, chaperones and parents. They closed their 25th New Jersey ACT-SO year with a fantastic showing at the 36th annual National Competition! NJ ACT-SO has programs currently operating in Camden, Gloucester County, Montclair, Newark, New Brunswick, the Oranges, Springfield and Trenton. Continued on next page
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The Positive Community September 2014
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Adanna Davis, chair New Brunswick ACT-SO, with Maya Moten Physics National Gold Medalist
ACT-SO NJ State Team
The state team captured a total of 9 national medals. The outstanding results were as follows: Medal
Category
Student Program
Gold Gold Gold Gold Silver Bronze Bronze Bronze Bronze
Sculpture Music Composition Physics Entrepreneurship Medicine & Health Biology Filmmaking Mathematics Poetry
Abiola Olaele Trenton Michael Spearman Camden Maya Moten New Brunswick Chentel Bembry New Brunswick Demetrius Beckham Newark Pearis Bellamy Gloucester County Taquan Allen Camden Isaiah Deverequx New Brunswick Hannah Sawyer New Brunswick
L–R: Deborah Smith Gregory, NJ ACT-SO chair, and Anton Tomlinson, NY chair. www.thepositivecommunity.com
L–R: Shaun Adams chair emeritus New Brunswick ACT-SO, and Hannah Sawyer, Poetry National Bronze Medalist
The Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) are an answer to the negative images and publicity that publicize the “failure” of African American youth. ACT-SO applauds them and works to bring out their abilities and talents. Deborah Smith-Gregory, NJ ACT-SO Chairperson noted, “NJ has built a premiere program because adults have come together to support our young people. Their success is our success! “ New York ACT-SO results will be covered in next month’s TPC. For more information about the upcoming season, visit the website, www.actsonewjersey.org September 2014 The Positive Community
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Freedom Summer Spotlight
Rev. C.T. Vivian Long Distance Runner for Freedom By Bob Gore t 90 years-old, the Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian—father, author, civil rights leader and preacher of the gospel—is one of the most beloved individuals in America. He was a companion to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., advisor to both presidential candidate Rev. Jesse Jackson and President Barack Obama, and a confidante to countless others. His forceful advocacy for social justice and his message of nonviolent social change is known worldwide. He has received honorary degrees and recognitions from major organizations and in 2013, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Historian Vincent Harding once wrote: “C.T. Vivian is one of the most persistent of the long distance runners for freedom and democracy.” Vivian attributes all of his accomplishments to God’s grace. I first met C.T. Vivian during the civil rights explosion. In the summer of 1966, voter registration was the focus in Mississippi; in Chicago, Dr. King moved into a west side apartment to dramatize urban housing conditions and spearhead “The Movement to End Slums.” His field staff was located at Warren Avenue Congregational Church, where I directed a group of student volunteers in testing children exposed to lead paint, which if eaten, could cause brain damage and even death. One morning, Rev. Vivian, whom I had admired from afar for years, entered the office. He extended his hand to me. “How are you, Doc?” he said, using the familiar title that elevates everyone to honorary preacher. For a star-struck teen, it was a memorable moment. After I left Chicago in 1969, our paths only crossed briefly at various meetings until 2011 when I had the occasion to interview him at the 40th anniversary gathering of the founders of the Institute of the Black World. During that conversation, I asked, “Dr. Vivian, who is writing your story?” His prescient response, “Maybe you will, Doc.” Since then, we’ve spent many hours in conversation for my forthcoming book on his extraordinary life. Born in the rural community of Booneville, MO in 1924, Vivian’s grandmother and mother moved to Macomb, Illinois after losing everything – their marriages, farm and city house in 1930 as the depression began. Though racism certainly was evident in their new home, the few black residents enjoyed cordial relations with the whites. Vivian was an exemplary child and exceptional student who began teaching Sunday school at twelve. In high school his awareness of racial issues began to crystallize. Intelligent, charming, exceptionally popular and mature beyond his years, he recalled, “I was president or vice pres-
C.T. Vivian 90th birthday party , July 2014 Bob Gore
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C.T. Vivian 1961Freedom Ride C.T. Vivian private collection
C.T. Vivian and wife Octavia C.T. Vivian private collection
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C.T. Vivian private collection
C.T. Vivian private collection
C.T. Vivian arrest photo
C.T. Vivian with President and Mrs. Obama and his son-in-law, Don Rivers
ident of every organization in high school but never invited to a party.” His experiences in Macomb helped mold him into the activist and preacher he later became. As planned, Vivian entered Western Illinois University, but left after three years to pursue life in Peoria, the regional hub. He met and married Octavia Geans at the Carver Community Center where they both worked. Their union lasted 58 years and produced six children. Mrs. Vivian, a loving, strong and spiritual woman, was a tireless activist and author of the first biography of Coretta Scott King. It was in Peoria in 1947 that Dr. Vivian, along with Ben Alexander, organized the successful desegregation of Barton’s restaurant, thirteen years before the Greensboro and Nashville student lunch counter sit-ins. His life’s vocation would also launch here. One day, he heard God’s voice telling him to preach. He said, “It was a profound example of God’s presence.” From that moment on he has been consumed by what William H. Myers calls the “irresistible urge to preach.” After relocating to Nashville in 1959 for seminary studies, he became friends with James Bevel, Bernard Lafayette and John Lewis, who were also enrolled at the American Baptist Theological Seminary. Marion Barry and Diane Nash were at Fisk University and Jim Lawson was a minster with the Fellowship for Reconciliation. Together they and six local ministers were the leadership team of the Nashville Student Sit-in Movement in 1960. Subsequently, they worked together on Freedom Rides and other pivotal civil rights campaigns in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi and Chicago. Commenting on the Nashville students, David Halberstam, author of The Children, a history of the Nashville Movement, wrote “...If God had a master plan, it was bringing together so many uncommon people of such rare strength and vision in one place.” In 1963, Rev. Vivian joined Dr. King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference as director of affiliates, responsible for recruiting local clergy and civil rights organizations across the country, a difficult and dangerous assignment as southern segregationists were not known for idle threats. Terror was the strategy; kidnapping, lynchings and shootings were the chosen tactics. Bernard Lafayette, a key strategist of many successful non-violent campaigns put it this way, “Your life was in constant jeopardy because no one
would be convicted even if you were murdered while organizing, demonstrating or while in jail.” Indeed, Dr. Vivian perfected the application of what Dr. King called the “powerful and just weapon which cuts without wounding and ennobles the man who wields it.” During the voter registration campaign in Selma Alabama, Sheriff Jim Clark, a rabid segregationist, punched Vivian so hard that he broke his own hand. But Vivian, adhering to the discipline of nonviolence, never resisted Clark’s blows. During the St. Augustine, Florida “Wade In” movement he was nearly drowned when a counter demonstrator knelt on his back, forcing him face down in the water. It is widely accepted that televised violence against these and other demonstrators, including children, directly led to the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Among his many successes is “Vision,” which he conceived and directed during the summer following the Selma Movement. “Vision” educated and prepared movement students who showed courage, insight and motivation for leadership roles in the south. This venture evolved into Upward Bound, a program opening the door to a college education for thousands of poor students. At the Urban Training Center in Chicago, he and Rev. James Morton created an intensive curriculum for training pastors in urban ministry and community development. The program’s central feature was a five-day exposure period for students to discover what it is like to be hungry, homeless and jobless, forcing them to forage for themselves, either by finding a job or by begging at church or social agencies. In the 1970s he created “Seminary Without Walls,” a pioneering distance learning program that provided specialized training for busy clergy without formal seminary training. Using taped lectures by leading theologians, community organizers and non-profit management specialists, students were exposed to advanced practices in church management and community development. Today Dr. Vivian maintains a dizzying schedule of worldwide speaking engagements, media interviews and board meetings. Yet he makes time each Saturday to mentor boys in a program created by the C.T. Vivian Leadership Institute. Asked about retirement, he replied, “You never leave the struggle, because there is always something to be done to alleviate suffering.”
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SAVE THIS DATE! SAVE SAVE THIS THIS DATE! DATE! SAVE THIS DATE! SAVE THIS DATE! Saturday, October 25, 2014 Saturday, Saturday, October October 25, 25, 2014 2014
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FINANCIAL WELLNESS Saturday, October 25, 2014 SEMINAR: FINANCIAL FINANCIAL WELLNESS WELLNESS SEMINAR: SEMINAR: FINANCIAL WELLNESS SEMINAR: 8am-4pm AAAFAMILY AFFAIR FINANCIAL WELLNESS SEMINAR: FAMILY FAMILY AFFAIR AFFAIR FAMILY AFFAIR AA FAMILY AFFAIR FINANCIAL WELLNESS SEMINAR:
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Wayside Baptist Institute holds its First Graduation “More than a Conqueror.” Romans 8:28-31
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Wayside Baptist institute's Class of 2014 www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Photos: Lem Peterkin
n Sunday, August 24, 2014 at approximately 3:30 P.M. sixty four believers continued “Marching Up to Zion” as the first graduates of the Wayside Baptist Institute. The Institute is a division of the Wayside Baptist Church in Brooklyn, NY. Rev. M. L–R: Pastor M. Zidde Hamatheite; Rev. Lawrence Zidde Hamatheite is the pastor of this 65-year-old mission founded Aker III, pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church by Rev. Theodis Hutcherson on August 7, 1949. and commencement speaker and Donna Killibrew, “The spiritual vision of the Wayside Baptist Institute was Christian Education Director birthed out of the need to educate and train the people of God to deepen our empowerment for church and community,” explained Pastor Hamatheite. “As a result of this need to educate, the church expanded from teaching individual ministry classes to developing an institute. With its first graduates Wayside Baptist Institute’s mission is to be able to reach Christians of various ages and culture with a foundational start in Christian Education,” said Pastor Hamatheite, elaborating on the purpose of the Institute. Reverend Lawerence E. Aker, III of Cornerstone Baptist Church was the commencement speaker. Donna Killibrew is the Christian Education director. The Institute is accredited through The Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc., which was founded in 1961 by an up-and-coming Martin Luther King, Jr. Pastor Hamatheite and Pastor Aker greet the graduates and other notables such as Benjamin Mays, Ralph David Abernathy, Wyatt T. Walker and Gardner C. Taylor.
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Health P R E V E N T I O N , T R E AT M E N T & C U R E
Helping Cancer Patients Look Good and Feel Better University Hospital breast cancer patient Crystal Brown of Newark has makeup applied by cosmetologist Adriana Fontora as part of the American Cancer Society Look Good Feel Better program on August 4, 2014. To view additional photos of the event, log onto http://tinyurl.com/ACS-Look-Good-Feel-Better.
BY HELENE FOX
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ook Good Feel Better, which is celebrating its 25th year, is a free, community-based, national service from the American Cancer Society that teaches female, as well as male, cancer patients beauty tips to look better and feel good about the way they look during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Over the past 25 years, more than 850,000 women have participated in the American Cancer Society Look Good Feel Better program. Crystal H. Brown, 46, of Newark was one of seven women who participated in the Look Good Feel Better session offered by University Hospital on August 4, 2014 at the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School-University Hospital Cancer Center. “The program was very good,” she said. “It uplifted and motivated me.” Brown, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2013, began chemotherapy in February of this year and will begin radiation in September. Her mother died from breast cancer in 2008, and she describes her own cancer journey as life changing. “I was always a gogetter,” she said. “I always worked and was active. To go
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from that to the way I am now, literally, overnight because of chemotherapy, has been hard. The chemo drains you.” In spite of the changes in her active lifestyle, Brown says that she remains upbeat and has even agreed to walk with the University Hospital team at the American Cancer Society “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” walk on October 19. She also said that prayer, the support of her family, and programs such as Look Good Feel Better help her remain encouraged and confident that she will be cancer free. Look Good Feel Better is supported by thousands of volunteer beauty professionals, health care professionals, and others who give their time to the program. All are trained and certified by the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the Professional Beauty Association at local, statewide, and national workshops. Materials and virtual workshops are available for women who are unable to attend a group workshop in person. Call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-2272345 to learn more. September 2014 The Positive Community
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KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR Kahlil Carmichael is the Pastor and Founder of It Is Well Living Church located in Monroe, NJ. He is the CEO of the Fitness Doctor Inc., a Fitness Rehabilitation and Wellness Consultation company. To contact Kahlil to become spiritually and physically fit visit www.itiswellchurch.com or call 732-921-3746
Commit to Living Well love supporting people and helping them reach new heights and new dimensions in their quest to be fit (both spiritually and physically) and live well. I am so thankful that God allows me to participate in the transformative process and help foster restoration in the life of His precious people. For this I am grateful! When people experience real transformation, purpose is often revealed, hope is restored and the impossible becomes reality. I have witnessed transformation in the lives of others, and I’ve noticed that the common denominator that fosters transformation spiritually, physically, and mentally is commitment — commitment to the plan; commitment to following the principles, and commitment to the process. Commitment is defined as the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc., or a state of personal dedication to something or someone. As a pastor, I witness many of God’s people commit themselves to the service of others with such love, joy, and dedication. Unfortunately, I have also observed some of the same individuals lack dedication and commitment when it comes to serving themselves. I want to challenge you to make a commitment to yourselves by committing to live well. That’s right! Make a commitment to live well and experience a better quality of life. Commit to living holy, healthier, and holistically. For it is when we commit to taking care of ourselves that we are then able to serve others more efficiently.
I
Here are some tips to help empower you to commit to living well. Make room in your schedule for fifteen or twenty minutes of quiet daily meditation. Contemplative prayer or meditation is a great way to sit still and alleviate stress. Sit in a chair or lay down on the floor (no sleeping) and breathe slowly as you sit quietly in the presence of God. Try to clear your mind and allow the Spirit to refresh your thoughts. Focus on eating healthier even if your spouse or significant other has not made the commitment. It is often very difficult and tedious to make different meals within a household. Many moms (and dads) complain about preparing different meals for finicky eaters and people within the family on special diets. Commit to preparing your own healthy meals and buy food specifically for your
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health and weight-loss goals. Your spouse and children will get the hint and perhaps follow suit. Hire a personal trainer. Yes you can afford it! It amazes me when I am consulting with a potential client and they feel my personal training services are out of their budget. Most people who declare such things often take exotic vacations, have advanced degrees, and cars that cost as much as some houses. What is more valuable than your health? Someone once said, “Your health is your wealth.” Why not invest in your most valuable asset—your physical fitness and health? I have allotted two workouts per week to help the community stay positive, physically fit, and committed to the purpose of living well. It Is Well Wellness and Worship Center, located at 2 JFK BLVD, Somerset, New Jersey, is offering free workouts through our Fit Care program. Every Sunday from 6:30-7:30a.m. and every Wednesday from 6:00–7:00p.m., you can work out with me (The Fitness Doctor) and a group of faithful and friendly people committed to living well. Psalm 37:5 says, “Commit your way to the Lord: trust in Him and He will act.” You may have tried to exercise, lose weight and get healthier by doing things in a way that did not yield results. I want to encourage you to shift your thinking and commit to get healthier in a way that incorporates proper fitness instruction and your faith in God. Amen #itiswell Exercise consistently, eat healthier, live well!! Call Kahlil to learn how to get healthier and live well! Call (732)921-3746 or visit www.fitnessdoctor.org for a free consultation!
Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature. You should consult your physician or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or changing your dietary regimen.
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When Is More Too Much? Dangers of Over-fortified Food EarthTalk® E – The Environmental Magazine
“Manufacturers use vitamin and mineral fortification to sell their products, adding amounts in excess of what people need and more than might be prudent for young children to consume.”
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dded nutrients in the processed foods we eat could indeed be too much of a good thing, especially for kids. According to a report from non-profit health research and advocacy group Environmental Working Group (EWG), nearly half of American kids aged eight and under “consume potentially harmful amounts of vitamin A, zinc and niacin because of excessive food fortification, outdated nutritional labeling rules and misleading marketing tactics used by food manufacturers.” EWG’s analysis for the “How Much Is Too Much?” report focused on two frequently fortified food categories: breakfast cereals and snack bars. Of the 1,550 common cereals studied by EWG, 114 (including Total Raisin Bran, Wheaties Fuel, Cocoa Krispies, Krave and others) were fortified with 30 percent or more of the adult Daily Value for vitamin A, zinc and/or niacin. And 27 of 1,000 brands of snack bars studied (including Balance, Kind and Marathon bars) were fortified with 50 percent or more of the adult Daily Value for at least one of these nutrients. EWG researchers based their analysis on Nutrition Facts labels on the various food items’ packaging. “Heavily fortified foods may sound like a good thing, but it when it comes to children and pregnant women, excessive exposure to high nutrient levels could actually cause short or long-term health problems,” says EWG research director Renee Sharp, who co-authored the report. “Manufacturers use vitamin and mineral fortification to sell their products, adding amounts in excess of what people need and more than might be prudent for young children to consume.” Sharp adds that excessive levels of vitamin A can lead to skeletal abnormalities, liver damage and hair loss, while high doses of zinc can impede copper absorption, compromise red and white blood cells and impair im-
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mune function. Also, too much vitamin A during pregnancy can lead to fetal developmental issues. And older adults who get too much vitamin A are at more risk for osteoporosis and hip fractures. EWG suggests it’s time to overhaul our food labeling system to better account for how ingredients may affect children as well as adults. “In other words, when a parent picks up a box of cereal and sees that one serving provides 50 percent of the Daily Value for vitamin A, he or she may think that it provides 50 percent of a child’s recommended intake,” says EWG researcher and report co-author Olga Naidenko. “But he or she would most likely be wrong, since the Daily Values are based on an adult’s dietary needs.” EWG is working on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update its guidelines for Nutrition Facts to better reflect how foods affect children as well as adults. In the meantime, parents might want to consider scaling back on fortified foods for their kids in favor of so-called whole foods (unprocessed, unrefined fruits, vegetables and whole grains) that deliver the right amounts of nutrients naturally. “Research consistently shows that the nutrient amounts and types found in whole foods provide optimal nutrition as well as least risk,” says Ashley Koff, a registered dietitian and a former ad executive for kid’s cereals and snack bars. “We owe it to parents and kids to make it easiest to choose better quality foods.” CONTACT: EWG’s “How Much Is Too Much?” report, www.ewg.org/research/how-much-is-too-much. EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine. Send questions to: earthtalk@ emagazine.com. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Make Health Your Habit!
Join Us for Our 9th Annual Health Revival! 4 4, 201 2 r e b tem ay, Sep d s e n d ce We Servi
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r hip praye n i Wors m le of Har h t l a e hurch p the h
st C e l Bapti r. Plac a i S r o n o m t ing ) At Me . Wash & St. Nicholas R n o t s Lenox v. Pre 141 Re th St. between 115 inner (West 5:45 D Worship raise & 6:45 P 0 Service 7: 0
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Health Fair
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141 West 115th Street, NY, NY 10026 Between Lenox & St. Nicholas Avenues Rev. Dr. Renee F. Washington Gardner, Pastor
Striving For A Healthy Harlem
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Culture L I F E , M U S I C , A R T & L I T E R AT U R E
Oh Happy Day!
Photos: Seitu Oronde
Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr. and Mrs. Bettye F. Forbes celebrate 50th Wedding Anniversary
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n Thursday, June 19, 6:00 p.m. in the nave of The Riverside Church in Manhattan, The Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., senior minister emeritus of the church and Mrs. Bettye F. Forbes, founder of the Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows. Among the honored guests at the celebration were many of the more than 75 couples for whom Dr. Forbes performed wedding ceremonies during his tenure as senior minister of Riverside. Their anniversary coincides with the 35th Anniversary of The Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble, so a special concert by the Ensemble followed the ceremony. www.thepositivecommunity.com
In a delightful twist, Drs. Harville Hendrix and Helen Hunt, nationally acclaimed marriage counselors, offered words of wisdom for sustaining quality marriages. The reception in the churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Hall featured the traditional wedding cake and light refreshments. The Forbes, who made a most beautiful couple as they walked down the aisle to recommit to the vows they took on June 13, 1964, have worked together in faithful service to church and community throughout their long life together. They are the proud parents of one son, James A. Forbes III, and have two grandchildren, Hannah Rose and James IV. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;JNW September 2014 The Positive Community
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A White Night of Appreciation BY GLENDA CADOGAN
Pam and Joan Pam with honorees
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n a stunning display of appreciation, the Lindsay family – owners of Trinbago Express Shippers -- showed more than 600 of their customers and friends, how much their support means to them. In a lavish all-white Appreciation Awards Ceremony and party, the Lindsays left no stone unturned in showing their customers that their business is valued. Pamela Lindsay is the matriarch of the family and the CEO of the shipping company, one of the best known in Brooklyn’s Caribbean community. It was 16 years ago when she first conceived the idea of an appreciation party for her customers. The idea was born after a particularly trying economic time for the company in which their doors almost closed for good. "But our customers stuck with us as we struggled through that period,” Lindsay reflects. “They kept coming back, and it is because of this we survived that trying period.” Once she was back on her feet, Lindsay held a party at her Brooklyn home for a few of those loyal customers. “I believe that you cannot receive without giving," she said. “In addition to their business, our customers also gave us their love. I felt it was necessary and important to show them our love in return.” The intimate house party morphed into the kind of grand affair that recently took place at the elegant Tropical Paradise Ballroom in Brooklyn. Billed as a night of “Empowering Black Women,” awards were handed out to three women in the community whose voices and actions have made an impact. The three awarded were Calypso Rose, the Calypso Queen of the World; Colette Cyrus-Burnett, owner of Super Wings and Joan LaPierre, immigration advocate and owner of R & T Cleaning Services. The awardees received citations from elected officials including Governor An-
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drew Cuomo, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, State Senator John Sampson, Assemblyman Nick Perry and Councilmember Jumanne Williams. A letter of congratulation to Lindsay and her family from Mayor Bill deBlasio was an unexpected special delight. LaPierre accepted her award in gracious humility; “It is so humbling to be honored for doing the work that you love,” she said. Cyrus-Burnett was happy to share her award with her Super Wings customers, whose support she says is what “gives me strength. I can stand here tonight because of the support I receive from the community,” she remarked, adding, “So, as much as I do this for myself, I do it for you.” The Lindsays went all out showing their appreciation from the time patrons arrived at the door by greeting them with champagne, flowers and specially decorated masks. At the food table, 22 different dishes with a Caribbean flavor were served. And by way of entertainment, the soca queen Denise Belfon enticed with one of her customary sterling performances as did Mr. Famous. The Trinbago Express Rhythm Section made sure that the energy remained high all night long. It was clear that the gratitude went both ways as one patron wrote to Lindsay in this heartfelt thank you note which said: People who truly live a life of music, tell the world you can have their love, you can have their smiles and forget about the bad paths; you don’t need them. Just take the music and the goodness because it is the very best and it is the part of life you always live. Your dream is beautiful as long as you live. Thank you. www.thepositivecommunity.com
photo courtesy of the artist
lila downs
MARCUS ROBERTS: PIANO MASTERS OF MELODY
opening weekend
CHUCHO VALDÉS, PEDRITO MARTINEZ & WYNTON MARSALIS sept 18–20 • 8pm Chucho Valdés, Pedrito Martinez, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis opening weekend
BILL FRISELL: THIS LAND woodY gUTHRie’S BeTTeR woRLd sept 19–20 • 7pm, 9:30pm Bill Frisell and the Big Sur Quintet
sept 26–27 • 7pm, 9:30pm Marcus Roberts and The Modern Jazz Generation perform the music of Jelly Roll Morton, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, and Chick Corea
LILA DOWNS oct 10–11 • 7pm, 9:30pm Mexican singer-songwriter Lila Downs makes her Appel Room debut
jazz at lincoln center A lead corporate supporter of Chucho Valdés, Pedrito Martinez & Wynton Marsalis
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Venue Frederick P. Rose Hall Box Office Broadway at 60th, Ground Fl. CenterCharge 212-721-6500
jAZZ.ORg
September 2014 The Positive Community
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McDonald’s Owners Give Back Tens of Thousands for Scholarships Raised at White Party
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he NY/NJ Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA®) hosted their 20th Annual Scholarship Fundraiser Gala on July 24, 2014 at the Crystal Plaza in Livingston, NJ. Funds raised benefit the Abyssinian Baptist Church Robert Lee Dunham Scholarship Fund, named for the pioneering businessman who opened the first McDonald’s restaurant in New York City. Lee was a tireless fighter for minorities and worked to help others gain McDonald’s franchises and become suppliers. The RMHC African American Future Achievers (AAFA) Scholarship Fund also benefits from the funds raised at the event. Deserving students receive thousands of dollars in scholarships throughout their four years of college because of the funds raised by BMOA. Patricia Harris, global chief diversity officer and VP of Global Community Engagement for McDonald’s Corporation, received the Robert Lee Dunham True Visionary Award. Harris, who began her career with McDonald’s over 30 years ago as an administrative assistant in the corporate legal department, is responsible for the development and implementation of diversity strategies throughout McDonald’s Corporation, including the 31,489 restaurants in 118 countries.
L–R: BMOA President and McDonald’s Owner Operator (MO/O) Brian Hairston, Robert Lee Dunham True Visionary Award Winner Patricia Harris, and RMHC Global Chair and MO/O Linda Dunham
General Manager VP for NY Metro Region Mwaffak Kanjee
QFC VP Marcos Quesada
BMOA and MO/O Treasurer Angela Adderley
Master of Ceremonies Kwame Jackson
Irving Street Rep CEO A. Curtis Farrow
McDonald's Owner Operator Jack Bert
L–R: NY MO/O Paul Hendel, Rich Perna, Cathie Perna, Elaine Diekmann, Ana Madan, Michelle Perna, and Jessica Mato
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www.thepositivecommunity.com
Don’t miss out on the magic! September 19
Wanda Sykes
September 20-21 American Songbook at NJPAC
Wanda Sykes • 9/19
Fred Hammond & Donnie McClurkin • 10/3
Haunted Illusions starring David Caserta • 10/26
Disney’s Choo Choo Soul with Genevieve • 10/5
Jazz and Soul featuring Fantasia and more • 11/13
September 21
Willie Nelson
September 28
Lewis Black
October
5
Disney’s Choo Choo Soul with Genevieve and the Choo Choo Dance Crew
October
17
Inside Amy Schumer’s Backdoor Tour
October
17
Jonathan’s Choice: Tierney Sutton
October
18-19 Golda’s Balcony starring Tovah Feldshuh
October
23-26 Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival
October
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November 1-2
Haunted Illusions starring David Caserta Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody
November 1
Into Sweeney Todd’s Woods
November 7-8
Second City Does New Jersey: Paved and Confused
November 7
Shaping Sound
November 8
Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra
November 9
Metropolitan Opera Rising Stars: Mozart and Company
November 9
Danny Bhoy, comedian
November 13
Jazz and Soul: Fantasia, Philip Bailey, Jose James and the Christian McBride Big Band
November 15
Chris Botti, trumpet
November 22
SalsaPalooza
November 23
Robeson–Trilogy: An Opera Company
November 28
Patti LaBelle with special guest Will Downing
November 28-30 Evil Dead the Musical
Shaping Sound • 11/7
Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack De Johnette • 11/30
Patti LaBelle • 11/28
Mike Epps • 12/5
November 30
Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack DeJohnette
December 5
Mike Epps: After Dark Tour
December 6
It’s Today: Mame at NJPAC
December 6
Freestyle & Old School Extravaganza
December 6
Robert Klein, comedian
December 7
Yuja Wang, piano
December 12
The Piano Guys: A Family Christmas
December 13
Swingin’ Holidays
December 20
Sweet Honey in the Rock: Celebrating the Holydays
December 21
Handel’s Messiah
December 26-27 Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
Please call our ticket services department to let them know if you require ADA services, particularly if you require wheelchair seating.
One Center Street, Newark, NJ
For tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC Groups of 10 or more: 1.888.MY.NJPAC
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8/26/14 10:57 AM
L–R: Rev. Patricia Morris with Moderator Washington, First Lady Bernita and Adrian Council Tye Tribbett
NY Liberty team
WNBA’s NY Liberty hosts Ty Tribbett, UMBA and The Positive Community at MSG
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oderator Rev. Carl Washington and United Missionary Baptist Association (UMBA) were front and center at Madison Square Garden on Sunday August 10th at a New York Liberty Women’s Basketball post game concert with Gospel recording sensation Ty Tribbet, presented by The Positive Community. UMBA’s Lottie B. Heath Youth Choir opened the festive occasion after enjoying a thrilling game between the Liberty and Indiana Fever. Over 2000 fans remained after the game for the special concert hosted by WLIB’s own Liz Black. Moderator Washington, pastor of New Zion BC in
Harlem, has committed his administration to the “uplift of our young people—the children. We must instill in them a sense of being, dignity, and purpose and community pride. We will remain ever true to this charge and will never back away from any challenge that will ultimately advance the cause of our future!” The United Missionary Baptist Association represents over 167 congregations in Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island and lower Westchester County. UMBA is a member of the statewide Empire Missionary Baptist Convention of New York where Rev. Ronald Grant is president. Photos: Karen Waters and Wali Amin Muhammad
UMBA’s Lottie B. Heath Youth Choir
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L–R: Felicia Council; Rev. Morris; Adrian Council, Jr.; Sis. V. Denice Rhodes; Rev. Washington and Min. Tyrone Richardson
Keia Clarke of MSG Sports/NY Liberty with radio personality Liz Black
Members of Greater Centennial AMEZ Church, Mt. Vernon, NY
Newark’s youth vocal performance group “Special Ensemble
www.thepositivecommunity.com
September 2014 The Positive Community
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CACCI Aniversary
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he Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently celebrated its 29th anniversary at Tropical Paradise in Brooklyn. It was a grand event that featured many leaders in business and community service! Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad
Hon. Una Clarke and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams
Doctors Roy and Eda Hastick surrounded by their grandchildren with Lady Jean Powell
Photos: Karen Waters
Photos: Vincnet Bryant
Metropolitan BC
Pastor Anniversary
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ev. Matthew L. Watley was the guest preacher at Metropolitan BC’s “Families Returning to God” month-long revival series. Rev. Watley is executive minister at Reid Temple in Silver Spring, Maryland. Rev. Watley is the son of Rev. William L. Watley, PhD, former pastor of St. James AME in Newark and current pastor at St. Phillips AME Church, Atlanta GA.
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L-R: First Lady Sonia, Mother Shirley Johnson, Pastor Johnson and children Stefon and Jasmine.
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ev. Bernard Johnson recently celebrated his first anniversary as pastor of the historic Friendship Baptist Church in Asbury Park, NJ. www.thepositivecommunity.com
SnapChat
Whisper
SmarterAppLock
Yik Yak
Kik Messenger
Teens, Tweens and Technology: Sites and Apps a Parent Needs to Know
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s kids head back to school, parents are checking off much needed school supplies to help their kids be as prepared and productive as possible. Notebooks, check! Pens, check! Backpack, check! The list goes on and on and for many students, the list includes some form of mobile technology, be it a tablet, smartphone or laptop. While technology is a great learning tool and helps with homework and research, parents need to be aware that while the World Wide Web can assist their children with researching ancient Mesopotamia, it can also expose them to a mess of unwanted interactions with random people. So before you give-in and buy that shiny new iPad, GalaxyTab or Cortara for your teen or tween, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with some of the sites and apps you might not know about and discuss them with your kids. Kik Messenger allows users to send private messages to others using the app. The issue here is that there is no validation of users during registration so user kikgrrl16 could actually be a 30-something year-old man looking to communicate with teenagers. SnapChat, used primarily by millions of millennials, allows users to send messages back and forth (including photos and now videos) with a predetermined amount of time before the messages, photos and videos expire and disappear. While many claim SnapChat is a simple way to exchange instant messages, many users find the time limit inviting for sexting — sending provocative photos. The time limit gives users a false sense of security because while they believe their photo has selfdestructed, other users are taking screen shots to save messages and photos for later use and sharing. Omegle allows users to communicate with strangers without any sort of registration. In addition to a “Spy Mode” feature that allows a third party to ask questions of and monitor the interaction of two other users, this app allows users to tag “interests” to help them pair up for chat with like-minded users. There is “monitored video chat” available to users age 13 and older and unmonitored video chat for users 18 and up. The site has many problematic users who expose children to sexual content on an almost continuous basis. www.thepositivecommunity.com
BY HELENE FOX
Yik Yak is another anonymous chat application but this one takes it further by sharing messages with the 500 users who are located closest to the posting user. These posts can include sexually explicit content, rumors, hate speech, abusive language and personal attacks. Some schools have blocked the app from their Wi-Fi in an effort to end its use. Whisper is an app that through anonymity encourages users to disclose secrets, desires, etc. It claims to discourage cyberbullying by keeping users entirely anonymous, but users do have handles and can be contacted both publicly and privately. Other apps to watch out for include Tinder and Down. These are among many that allow users to browse other users to “hook up.” They can even be linked to Facebook profiles, allowing users access to even more personal information. Even seemingly innocent sites like Facebook, Instagram and Google require monitoring and an open conversation with young users who might utilize GoogleMaps or “check-in” at their favorite mall on Facebook. These features use GPS locating and can share that information with others, potentially disclosing a child’s whereabouts to the public. GPS aside, many kids list their school, sports, clubs, after-school jobs and hobbies on social media profiles. This also can be hazardous as it tells people where they are at specific times of the day. As if those sites and apps aren’t enough to deal with, parents need to also be aware that technology allows kids (and spouses, significant others, etc.) to hide apps, texts and photos on their devices. HideItPro uses an audio player icon and fully functional audio controls to hide in plain sight while hiding messages, photos, videos and other files that can only be accessed with a password. SmarterAppLock appears to be a functioning Google search but does the same thing. As you send your kids back to school with new technology, do some research, have a conversation where you set boundaries and consequences, and if necessary, utilize monitoring software of your own to know what your kids are doing online, with whom they're doing it, and how much information they’re sharing with the public. September 2014 The Positive Community
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Better PARENTS, Better CHILDREN, Better FAMILIES
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Director of the Black United Fund Health & Human Services
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REGISTER ONLINE:
www.shilohplainfield.org or call 908-754-3353 for more information!
Willing Heart Photos: Karen Waters
Tracy Munford, Newark Beth-Israel Hospital
Sam Delgado, Verizon
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ommunity leaders in education, health and business gathered at The Willing Heart Community Care Center on July 28, 2014 for a reception to learn about Teen Life Day Camp. Located in the heart of Newark, New Jersey’s Central Ward at 555 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., the Willing Heart Community Care Center is an outreach program of Metropolitan Baptist Church, charged with promoting health and wellness through cultural and artistic expression, recreation and social services. Teen Life Day Camp is one of the programs that helps fulfill the center’s commitment to nurturing individuals through a vibrant, comprehensive, curriculum and serving the community through creative approaches.
“MORE THAN A BROADWAY SHOW, A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC THAT TRANSFORMED AMERICA!” –CBS SUNDAY MORNING
Ken Gifford, director, Iron Bound Studios, Teen Life Leadership executive
GREAT SEATS AVAILABLE FOR JUST $59
TOP ROW L–R: Rev. David Jefferson, Jr., executive director, Teen Life Day Camp; Stephen Fisher, college camp counselor, Morehouse College; Teen Life Day campers Kamar and A.J., and Maurice Spencer, assistant director. BOTTOM ROW L–R: Stephanie Fisher, college camp counselor, Spelman College; Jamie George, program director, Teen Life Day Camp and Amanda Tucker, college camp counselor www.thepositivecommunity.com
LUNT-FONTANNE THEATRE IN TIMES SQUARE MOTOWNTHEMUSICAL.COM • 877-250-2929 September 2014 The Positive Community
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JOANNE J. NOELLE SELAH!
Professor Joanne J. Noel, B.A., M.A., M. DIV., DMIN is Associate Professor of English and Director of the IRC, Pillar College
Satan: the Original Gangsta Liar, liar! Pants on fire! Nose as long as a telephone wire! he rhyme above refers to a character flaw as old as the devil himself, and it’s a flaw with which many struggle, even some Christian believers. In fact, the devil has achieved notoriety in the area of lying. In street parlance, he is the original gangsta. In the Gospel of John 8:44, Jesus says the devil is the “father of lies.” That means that he is the original liar. Webster’s dictionary defines a liar as “a person who tells lies—a deceiver, fibber, perjurer, false witness, fabricator, and equivocator.” Listen as this gangster fabricates by telling Eve, through manipulation of the serpent, that it’s okay to disobey God by eating the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3); observe as he equivocates by telling Jesus that one test of his identity as the Son of God would be to commit suicide. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone’” (Matt 4: 3-6). Of course, Jesus’ comeback is: Liar, Liar! Pants on fire! Nose as long as a telephone wire (Pinocchio allusion). People lie for various reasons and in various ways. In the article, “The Ways We Lie,” Stephanie Ericsson identifies 10 ways in which people lie (the white lie, facades, ignoring the plain facts, deflecting, omission, groupthink, stereotypes and clichés, the out-and-out lie, dismissal, delusion). If we tell the truth, while some of us may not commit the out-andout lie, we have succumbed to at least one of the fabrications above. How many times have we told the white lie (the harmless lie) so as not to hurt someone’s feelings? How many times, I wonder, have we deflected (being blatant about some things but never bringing up the things we want to hide)? How many times have we engaged in omission (telling the truth but leaving out key facts that will change the story)? How many times have we plagiarized (using someone’s idea/work/words) without giving them credit? Some students who fail to complete assignments on time or come to class as scheduled, kill off their parents and grandparents every semester! There are individual lying and communal lying. One
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aspect of lying that is present across the board in churches, educational institutions, and corporate America is groupthink. How many times have we been part of groupthink (decision-making groups) in which “loyalty to the group has become more important than any other value, with the result that dissent and the appraisal of alternatives” (Ericsson 3) are suppressed, crushed, dismissed and viewed with suspicion? The truth about lying is that it is not justifiable, and therefore should not be an option for the Christian. As lying is as old as the devil, so truth-telling is as old as God and believers are created in God’s image and redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus. Biblical writers, classical writers and poets support truth-telling: In Colossians 3:9, Paul writes, “Lie not one to another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his deeds.” Proverbs 12:22 states, “Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” In the poem The Liar, William Blake writes: Deceiver, dissembler Your trousers are alight From what pole or gallows Shall they dangle in the night? When I asked of your career Why did you have to kick my rear With that stinking lie of thine Proclaiming that you owned a mine? In Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Hotspur says to Glendower, “And I can teach you, kinsman, how to shame the devil—by telling the truth!/Tell the truth and shame the devil…” Moreover, lying is the original gangster’s primary weapon against God’s children. He uses the tactic of deceit to separate people from God. Some of his common lies include convincing people that God doesn’t exist, God doesn’t care about them, or that the Bible is not a truthtelling book. So as not to imitate the devil, Christians will need a truth serum: the Holy Spirit’s power to submit to God so as to resist the inclination to fib. Christ followers are not to imitate the original gangster but to imitate Christ. When we imitate Christ, we tell the truth and shame the devil. September 2014 The Positive Community
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The Late James Baldwin Honored in Harlem Photo :Risasi Dais
James Baldwin's family and friends following the street naming: (L–R) Voza Rivers, New Heritage Theatre; Patricia Cruz, Harlem Stage; Brooklyn Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo; N.Y. State Senator Bill Perkins; Barbara Baldwin, the author's sister; nephew Trevor Baldwin; Harlem Assemblyman Keith Wright; Poet and Activist Sonia Sanchez, and Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer
n August 2, 2014, what would have been his 90th birthday, James Baldwin, the late literary giant, was honored during a celebration hosted by HARLEM WEEK, INC.; New Heritage Theatre Group; National Black Theatre and Columbia University School of the Arts Office of Community Outreach & Education At 10:30 a.m., Baldwin family members gathered for a photo under the marquee of the Apollo Theater, emblazoned with “Happy 90th Birthday James Baldwin.” At noon, a section of West 128th Street between Fifth and Madison Avenues was designated as “James Baldwin Place,” in honor of the work, life, and legacies of one of the greatest writers and thinkers of the past century. There were readings of his work and testimonials from those who knew him at the National Black Theatre (NBT) and a celebration at the school attended by James and his siblings (formerly P.S. 24, now Renaissance High School). —JNW
Harris Family Tradition of Supporting Education Continues
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eneration-Next joined forces recently with the Harris Family Scholarship Foundation to give scholarships to deserving young students. Generation-Next is an organization that exists to find, develop, organize and implement young leaders from across the nation in their local communities. Brandon McCollough is the president of Generation-Next. The scholarships were presented at a special ceremony at Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Hartsville, SC., the church founded by Brandon’s greatgreat grandparents in the 1890s. His grandmother Sarah Harris is still an active member of the church. —JNW
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L–R: Brandon McCollough (center), president of Generation-Next, presents $1,000 scholarship checks to Ashownte Maretha Tedder and Shakaile Johnson. Keondria Monique could not be present. www.thepositivecommunity.com
L–R: NYPD Chief Philip Banks III, Police Commissioner William Brantton, George Hulse, HealthFirst
NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo
West Indian American Day Carnival Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad and Seitu Oronde
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he 47th annual New York Caribbean Carnival Celebration of Caribbean Pride and Culture was all that and much more! The 5–day Cultural extravaganza of outdoor concerts, Caribbean cuisine, colorful Carnival costumes and competitions culminated in the most spectacular display of pageantry, pulsating music and a gigantic dose of fun, camaraderie and merriment at WIADCA’s New York Caribbean Carnival Parade with one million spectators dizzy with excitement. The members of the Brooklyn-based West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) are thankful that 2014 Carnival celebrations will go down in the record books as some of the most enjoyable and safest Carnival festivities in a very long time. No incidents were reported by NYPD during the parade or after the festivities. The true spirit of Carnival prevailed! —AAC
come see what’s new. HINT: it’s more than just the food! Visit the new East Harlem Perkins®
Mediterranean Omelette
East Harlem • 200 East 125th Street • 212-860-4500 E. 125th St. and 3rd Ave. Sunday–Thursday 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Join MyPerkins™ at perkinsrestaurants.com
NYC Mayor deBlasio and Family www.thepositivecommunity.com
Printed in the U.S.A. © 2014 Perkins & Marie Callender’s, LLC
September 2014 The Positive Community
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From Our Hearts to Your Hearts! From Our Hands To Your Hands!
People Helping People . . . Let the Florence E. Browne Funeral Home family care for your family during your difficult season of bereavement. In business since 1912, our full service funeral home is well-known for its compassionate, professional & excellent service. Our staff is always available to assist you through the grieving process.
Florence E. Browne Funeral Home
436 Lenox Avenue, New York, NY 10037
212-285-5181
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For many years Florence E. Browne has served many communities locally and abroad. Feel free to visit our Funeral Home located in the Village of Harlem, New York. Our Service Family would be more than happy to sit and answer your questions regarding funeral arrangements, cremations & pre-arrangements. In addition, we provide notary services as well as referrals for anyone desiring professional grief counseling.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD
Let’s Pursue “Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth was filled with violence.”−Genesis 6:11 (NASB) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” –Matthew 5:9 (NASB)
he above Old Testament passage is part of the biblical description of conditions on earth immediately before God brought about the Great Flood. The New Testament quotation is drawn from Jesus Christ’s Sermon on the Mount. Together, these Bible passages reflect God’s dislike of violence. So do numerous other scriptures, including Commandment No. 6, “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13, NASB). Three of my prior columns this year have concerned violence. In the February issue of The Positive Community, I discussed internal warfare within the recently formed African country, South Sudan. In the March issue I described efforts by the Central African Republic’s interim president, Catherine Samba-Panza, to end mass violence in her country. In the June issue, I analyzed the mass kidnapping of several hundred Nigerian girls within the historical context of the African slave trade. Only the kidnappings received extensive coverage within the general mass media of the United States. But mass violence in the Near East and Europe has received extensive American news coverage: specifically, the bombings in Gaza and Israel, the military expansion of ISIS in Iraq, and the struggle between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian government forces in Ukraine. Within the United States, considerably smaller (but nonetheless significant) violent incidents have received massive news coverage. These include the killing of Eric Garner, an unarmed, asthmatic black father whom police on Staten Island, NY, put into a chokehold. Fortunately, protests advocating prosecution of the officers who killed Garner have been consistently peaceful, including a march of several thousand people one Saturday in late August. Also extensively covered has been the killing of unarmed 18-year old Michael Brown by police in Ferguson, MO. Protests against Brown’s killing led to 1960s style rioting by community residents and/or outsiders, and military-level suppression by local police. Fortunately, the violence in Ferguson has subsided as of this writing.
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What are we to make of all this violence, ranging from local to international? What are we to do about the injustices that, in some cases, may have precipitated violence and, in other cases, may have resulted from violence? As Christians, our standard posture should be to follow Christ, the Prince of Peace. We should place Christ, His commandments, and His values before all other national, neighborhood, personal, racial, and economic interests. I am sure it is on purpose that the first of God’s Ten Commandments is, “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3). Significantly, three meticulous bible translations – the New American Standard Bible, the New Revised Standard Version, and the New International Version—footnote “before” to also be translatable as “besides.” So we are to have no god besides God. I see that to incorporate the idea that Christians should not juggle between what God commands and what secular value systems suggest. So since violence displeases God and He encourages peacemaking, we, as Christians, should pursue peace and discourage violence − in Africa, the Middle East, the Ukraine, Staten Island, Ferguson, our own neighborhoods, our own families, our own relationships and our own lives. Even as we pursue justice, we should strive to achieve it peacefully. The Christian scholar activist Martin Luther King said, “Violence is wrong, it is immoral, it is impractical…” Finally, does the extensive violence we are seeing on earth, including potential, actual, alleged, or real superpower violence in the Middle East and in and/or adjacent to Ukraine, signal that we are approaching end times? “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs….” −Matthew 24:6-8 “…But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved....”−Matthew 24:13
So let’s not trip out on the violence. As followers of Christ, let’s stand firm in striving toward peace.
September 2014 The Positive Community
81
GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY
The Last Word www.thepositivecommunity.com September 2014
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82 The Positive Community
BY R.L. WITTER
Vol. 14, No. 8
September 2014
eptember marks the change of seasons, the transition from summer to fall. As students get back into the swing of school and the leaves begin to change colors, we look forward to the smell of cinnamon, pumpkin everything and for many of us, FOOTBALL! This year the beginning of football season has been overshadowed by the story of Ray Rice, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens, and the video of him spitting on and punching his thenfiancée, Janay, rendering her unconscious. The public has been critical of the nearly non-existent consequences for Rice’s actions—a two-game suspension from the NFL and a diversion program that upon completion would have prosecutors drop all charges related to the beating. While people debate whether or not Rice should be allowed to play again in the NFL and question why Janay married and continues to stay with him, I’d like to invoke the phrase “Monday morning quarterbacking.” We can speculate forever on whether or not this was Rice’s first time hitting a woman, his wife’s mental state, if his fame and money afforded him special treatment, what the NFL knew and when—but none of that really matters. What does matter is how we as a society got to this place where we needed a video to prove the viciousness of Rice’s actions, as if seeing a woman sprawled out on an elevator floor wasn’t enough. We needed to be sure that Janay hadn’t caused her own injury by taunting Rice or being disrespectful to him. And that’s the problem. I was raised that “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Matthew 5:39 tells us, “…If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” It’s not to be taken literally, but to tell us not to strike back as there is never a true winner in a fight, battle, or war. In the end, everyone sustains
injury and leaves something of himself on the field. We have to address the violence in our culture and the apathy for our brothers and sisters that allows us to stand clear with our phones and tablets, recording other people’s struggles instead of engaging ourselves and offering assistance and support, like the Good Samaritan. We have to find value in all life, not just the lives of those who look or think like we do, or our friends and loved ones. Prior to Ray Rice’s suspension, Michael Brown was the name on everyone’s lips from CNN to the corner barbershop. Once again, we’re angry about an unarmed, young black man dying at the hands of a white police officer. Weren’t we just here not too long ago? But as with Ramarley Graham, Sean Bell, Amadou Diallo, and too many others, there supposedly weren’t any cameras rolling, despite police vehicles being equipped with dashboard mounted cameras and microphones. My charge here at The Positive Community is to shine a light on the good things happening in the black community, and by and large, I’d like to think that’s what I do. Month after month we bring you uplifting stories about people in our local communities who are doing something to be part of the solution. Kim McLain and David Banks can educate the brown children of New York and Newark, but they cannot guarantee the safety of those children from thugs who would do them harm—whether those thugs wear red or blue gang colors and carry guns, and especially when they wear blue uniforms and carry guns and badges. We have to do better; for us, for our children. We owe it to ourselves and we owe it to them. Today I’m struggling to find the positivity and the happy ending that usually sums up the monthly issue. I’m looking to you, the community, to help find it.
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